In March, researchers from CREDS at the University of Innlandet and the Copernicus Institute at Utrecht University took a key step toward creating an energy-positive neighborhood. As part of the JUST PEPP project, they used a drone equipped with a thermal camera to map heat and energy use in nine buildings in Kongsvinger’s Vennersberg area.
The drone, operated by visiting researcher Mitali Joshi from Utrecht University, gathered detailed thermal data on heat loss in the Tiurberget housing cooperative. This information will help identify areas where buildings are losing heat, offering valuable insights for improving energy efficiency.
“With thermal imaging, we can see exactly where each building is losing heat,” Mitali explained. “This allows us to make specific recommendations to reduce energy loss and improve energy efficiency.”
The researchers are now analysing the energy demand and are looking at possible strategies to make Tiurberget an energy-positive neighborhood – an area that produces more energy than it uses. By collecting high-resolution building data and analysing thermal bridges with the drone camera, and then comparing the findings with actual energy use, they are working to develop effective upgrade strategies. They also consider how local energy sources such as rooftop solar cells can reduce dependence on the electricity grid.
Although the main focus today was collecting technical data, the findings will be important in future dialogue with the local community. The researchers now develop an interactive energy panel that will enable residents to explore various energy-saving measures and participate in decision-making processes.
Professor Johan Kask from CREDS emphasises the importance of this collaboration:
“We are laying the foundation for a participatory process where residents can use data-driven scenarios to influence the development of a greener neighborhood,” says Kask. “By finding cost-effective ways to increase energy efficiency, we are taking the first step towards making this neighborhood energy-positive.”
As the team fine-tunes the models and explores solutions, the JUST PEPP project takes an important step closer to its goal of providing local governments across Europe with the knowledge and tools to create energy-efficient, self-sufficient neighborhoods.
