The program takes into account the broader context of the energy transition in the building sector in Europe and worldwide. It allows participants to understand the coupling of the building and energy sectors in their full complexity and provides a portfolio of efficient energy solutions for buildings that exist today as well as that are under research and development. The summer academy provides a platform for learning, exchange and contribution to shaping the building sectors’ future.

The summer academy starts with course work and lectures taught by high-level scholars from academia as well as experts and practitioners from leading companies. We start with the urban contextualization of sustainability transitions in the building sector by analyzing the interplay of building practices, actors and policy regulation. Second, scholars talk about holistic strategies for energy efficient refurbishment of the building stock and the renewal of the related supply systems. Considering new constructions, we will elaborate the concept of a Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB), one which produces as much energy as it uses over the course of a year. This gives participants the knowledge and skills to apply renewable and sustainable energy technologies to the design, construction and operations of interior environments. Third, we further tackle special issues of an integrated sustainable building design, construction and operation, such as: passive and active measures for preventing overheating in summer, innovative concepts for façades, artificial lighting and daylighting concepts, heating and cooling by means of renewable energy sources, and concepts for a smart operation of buildings.

During the second week of our summer school, students get to work on a case study. This project presented a range of challenges such as improving the façade, preventing overheating in summer, providing heating and cooling with a low-carbon approach and integrating renewable energies at the building site. Students explore a diverse range of technologies and low energy strategies to improve the buildings' performance, and examine best practices in reducing the environmental impact of buildings. The outcomes of the projects are presented in a plenary discussion to the client, participants of the summer academy and scholars of the departments.

 

You can read the detailed program below or download it here.