Vertical extension projects and deep-retrofit renovations are stalled by grid congestion and the phase-out of net metering. Heat pumps are essential but create uncertainty about grid impact. As a result, housing associations and grid operators remain hesitant to adopt all-electric vertical extensions and energy-positive buildings, despite the urgent need for decarbonisation.

Objective

This project develops scalable, grid-aware solutions for vertical extensions and deep-retrofit renovations in multi-storey housing. By combining energy demand reduction with smart, open-source and S2-ready control, optimally sized buffers, PV systems and heat pumps, it creates an integrated approach operating within existing grid connections. Improved extension potential assessment and decision-making processes enable scaling and acceleration while addressing technical and organisational barriers.

This project develops scalable, grid-aware solutions for vertical extensions and deep-retrofit renovations in multi-storey housing, with smart installation control as a key enabler. By integrating open-source and S2-ready control, energy demand reduction, optimally sized buffers, PV systems and heat pumps, existing grid connections can be used efficiently. An improved extension potential assessment tool and decision-support mechanism for housing associations accelerate scaling and implementation.

Results

  • Grid-aware installation control for extensions and renovation
  • Scalable S2-ready open-source energy solutions
  • Efficient use of existing grid connections
  • Improved extension potential tool and housing association decision-making

Approach

Three work packages develop prefabricated vertical extension concepts, a GIS-based extension potential tool and open-source, S2-ready installation control. Validation takes place in a living lab with housing associations, supported by business models, governance and broad knowledge dissemination for sector-wide uptake.

Cofinanced by

TKI Bouw en Techniek

Education impact

This project strengthens education by providing students with insights into decentralised energy systems and the transition towards flexible, smart energy networks. Students learn to work with innovative design, control and management methods, open standards and interoperable energy systems. In addition, they develop knowledge of new business models, governance approaches and organisational models required for the redesign of energy systems in the built environment, both in the Netherlands and across Europe.

HU researchers involved in the research

  • Wilko Planje | Researcher | Research group New Energy in the City
    Wilko Planje
    • Researcher
    • Research group: Applied Urban Energy Transition
  • portretfoto diede wiegerinck
    Diede Wiegerinck
    • Lecturer-researcher
    • Research group: Applied Urban Energy Transition
  • Timo Walraven in black clothes
    Timo Walraven
    • Researcher
    • Research groups: Building Future Cities, Applied Urban Energy Transition

Collaboration with knowledge partners

Related research groups

Related courses

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Wilko Planje | Researcher | Research group New Energy in the City

Wilko Planje

  • Researcher
  • Research group: Applied Urban Energy Transition