Brief

Sustainable Campus: Solar cooling and heating for the renovated chemistry building of the Karl-Franzens-University in Graz

In 2012, the existing chemistry building at the Karl-Franzens University of Graz was completely renovated. In line with the strategic focus “Sustainable Campus”, particular attention was paid to environmentally friendly construction methods and the use of alternative energies.

Technology

To ensure a sustainable energy supply, SOLID designed and planned a 638 m² solar thermal system. The collectors were installed on the roofs of the extension and an absorption chiller was connected to the solar thermal system. This chiller is used to generate a third of the cooling requirements of the laboratories in the summer months. In winter, the heat generated is used for heating and hot water – also for the canteen and student hall opposite. The system comprises 2 x 3,500 L hot water tanks and a 1,000 L tank for cold water.

The system is controlled by its own hardware and software solution, which allows remote monitoring and maintenance and is tailored to the needs of the system.