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Sustainable and energy-saving integrated heating/cooling systems

Published: November 2025

Innovative heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce energy consumption by intelligently utilizing natural energy sources such as the earth, air, and sun. Systems like heat pumps, solar thermal systems combined with absorption chillers, and geothermal systems enable environmentally friendly and efficient climate control that provides both heating and cooling. Furthermore, modern systems precisely control room temperature using technologies such as phase change materials (PCMs), which store heat and release it as needed. Integrated ventilation solutions also improve air quality by efficiently circulating fresh air while minimizing heat loss. In addition, existing buildings can be retrofitted with these sustainable technologies, improving energy efficiency and significantly reducing CO₂ emissions, even in existing buildings.

Guiding questions

  • What financial and political incentives could motivate building owners in Thuringia to invest in sustainable heating and cooling systems?
  • How can the social acceptance of this topic be promoted in Thuringia?
  • How can the long-term impact of sustainable heating/cooling systems be evaluated and optimized under changing climatic conditions?
  • What cutting-edge R&D projects are there in this field in Thuringia?

challenges

Implementing sustainable heating/cooling systems requires extensive planning and adaptation, especially in retrofit projects, as existing buildings are often not designed for such technologies. The initial investment costs for heat pumps, solar thermal systems, phase change materials (PCMs), natural ventilation systems, etc., are high, and not all building owners are willing to bear these costs. A shortage of qualified personnel needed for installation, operation, and maintenance can further slow down implementation.

Concrete examples

  • Phase Change Materials for temperature regulation: PCMs store and release heat to passively cool or heat interior spaces, thereby reducing energy consumption
  • Natural ventilation and airflow optimization: By selectively controlling airflows and using natural ventilation systems, energy-efficient building cooling is achieved, reducing the need for air conditioning
  • Passive cooling strategies to reduce the cooling load, such as roof and facade greening, shading, blue and green spaces

Foresight Report

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Reference

Your contact persons

Reference

Michel Reichardt

Michel Reichardt Project Manager Strategic Foresight

Christoph Grollman

Christoph Grollman Project Manager Strategic Foresight

Dr. Sophia Gänßle

Dr. Sophia Gänßle Project Manager Data Science Strategic Foresight

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