Chapter 1 - Introduction
Welcome to the second lesson, where we explore the heart of the PLURAL project: a pioneering approach to building renovation through the Prefabricated Non-structural (PnU) kits, which operate within a flexible and holistic framework. The PLURAL concept is built on four main pillars, each dedicated to achieving specific project objectives and supporting the methodology that will drive its success. Each of these pillars represents a core area of development, ensuring the PLURAL solutions are adaptable, efficient, and impactful for the future of sustainable renovation.
PnU Design and Manufacturing
This pillar focuses on creating three distinct Core Systems within the PnU kits, each designed to meet diverse climatic and architectural needs across Europe. These systems utilize a range of technologies, materials, and configurations tailored to different climate zones:
Smart Wall: This modular system includes insulation, photovoltaic (PV)-integrated glass, slim-type fan coils, and an indoor environmental quality (IEQ) regulation system. It is highly adaptable to different façades and finishing materials, making it ideal for warm climates, such as the demonstration site in Greece.
ConExWall: A hydronic wall heating and cooling system installed between the existing wall and the new envelope, this system is particularly suited for colder climates. Integrated with solar energy converters, it will be demonstrated in the Czech Republic.
Denvelops Comfort: This system integrates an air-handling unit into the building envelope, using both passive and active heat exchangers and built-in PVs to regulate heating and cooling through thermoelectric elements. It is designed for moderate climates and will be demonstrated in Spain.
Each Core System offers flexibility to integrate high-performance windows, IEQ components, and nano-enabled, nature-based materials. This approach provides climate-specific solutions that enhance energy performance, occupant comfort, and sustainability at a reduced cost.
Software Tools
The digital backbone of the PLURAL concept, this pillar centres around two key IT platforms:
LYSIS (Building Information Modeling - BIM): LYSIS serves as a centralized data platform for managing building geometry, energy systems, insulation details, and more, integrating life-cycle assessments for energy, environment, and economics.
MODEST (Decision Support Tool): MODEST aids decision-making through predefined KPIs and real-time data, supporting stakeholders in selecting optimal PnU solutions. This tool connects with the LYSIS platform to enhance energy management, address data privacy, and support long-term system adjustments.
Pilot Validation and Demonstration
This pillar is dedicated to testing and validating the PnU kits through real-world demonstrations in three residential buildings across Europe, each representing unique climatic demands:
High Cooling Demand - Mediterranean (Greece)
Moderate Cooling Demand - Mediterranean (Spain)
Heating-Dominated Demand - Continental Climate (Czech Republic)
In addition, three virtual demonstrations in Berlin, Stockholm, and Bern extend the evaluation to broader climates, providing valuable insights into the adaptability and performance of PLURAL solutions. These real and virtual pilots validate the cost-effectiveness and energy performance improvements of the PnU kits, confirming their suitability for nearly Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) goals.
Go-to-Market Strategy
This final pillar supports the market rollout of PLURAL solutions by focusing on the logistics and business models required for successful implementation. Key elements include:
Off-Site Fabrication and Transportation - streamlining manufacturing and assembly logistics
New Business Models - engaging stakeholders such as construction companies and public bodies, with strategies to address high-impact market segments, including post-war multi-family buildings
Training and Support - an online platform for training stakeholders like installers and building managers, ensuring widespread adoption and long-term sustainability of PLURAL’s solutions
In this lesson, we have covered the essential pillars that form the foundation of the PLURAL concept, providing insight into the innovative design, digital tools, and strategic approach behind the project. Each of these pillars is brought to life by the expertise and collaboration of key project partners, whose combined strengths make these ambitious goals achievable.
In the next lesson, PLURAL partners, we will introduce the skilled teams and organizations driving PLURAL’s success, exploring their roles, contributions, and the unique expertise each brings to this transformative project. Let’s continue to see how these partnerships shape the future of sustainable building renovation.