NEWS: REHOUSE activities assessed in Switzerland

The REHOUSE Consortium at the SUPSI Campus in Mendrisio, Switzerland ©Steinbeis Europa Zentrum

The REHOUSE consortium gathered in-person on 19th and 20th November 2024 at the SUPSI Campus in Mendrisio, Switzerland, to review progress over the past six months and plan the next phase of its work. The meeting brought together the project partners to exchange insights, evaluate ongoing initiatives, and explore innovative solutions for sustainable building renovation.

A workshop focusing on Customer Profiling for the REHOUSE Renovation Packages moderated by Steinbeis was conducted where partners were divided in 5 groups and discussed 5 potential consumer for the REHOUSE renovation solutions and identify their Jobs, Pains and Gains.

The consortium also toured the research laboratories of SUPSI, showcasing the advanced 3D printing lab, the state of the art Calibri laboratory for certifying solar panels, and the conservation-restoration lab. An additional highlight was the material library used by students to feel types of materials such stone, marbles, wood, glass, etc,.

The group gained further insights through the visit to Polifunzionale Pregassona that served as an prime example of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV). The building includes residences for the elderly with 114 beds, a day centre capable of accommodating 40 users daily, and a kindergarten for 26 children aged 0 to 3 years.

Polifunzionale Pregassona buidling at Lugano, Switzerland ©Steinbeis Europa Zentrum
Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Module at the Polifunzionale Pregassona buidling at Lugano, Switzerland ©Steinbeis Europa Zentrum
Polifunzionale Pregassona buidling at Lugano, Switzerland ©Steinbeis Europa Zentrum

Furthermore, the consortium visited the SUNAGE production factory in Chiasso, Switzerland. SUNAGE produces photovoltaic solutions by seamlessly integrating PV technology into architectural cladding and facades. SUNAGE is a REHOUSE project partner of Renovation Package 5, in charge of co-developing a multipurpose façade system with bio-based insulation and BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaic).

REHOUSE consortium at the SUNAGE production in Chiasso, Switzerland ©Steinbeis Europa Zentrum

Insights gained from the workshop, laboratory tours, and site visits will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of the REHOUSE project.