Tecnalia coordinates European Project to accelerate building energy retrofitting with modular and digital solutions building energy upgrades via industrialized and digital technologies (Autor: Mireia Ochoa)
Buildings consume roughly 40% of the EU’s total energy, largely for heating, cooling systems, and hot water production. With renovation activity far below what’s needed, urgent action is required to hit Europe’s ambitious 2050 decarbonization milestones.
The ENSNARE initiative, led by TECNALIA, revolutionizes residential retrofits by fusing cutting-edge technology, digital workflows, and factory-based production methods to overhaul outdated housing efficiently.
Breakthrough: Advanced Modular Façade System
Central to the project is a prefabricated, multi-role modular façade. It merges solar power elements—such as PV panels, thermal collectors, and combined systems—with high-performance insulation, intelligent glazing, and independent ventilation units equipped for heat recapture. The ready-to-install format speeds deployment while slashing fieldwork mistakes.
Smart Digital Ecosystem and Field-Tested Success
Digital enhancements include drone-powered BIM modeling for accurate site analysis; an oversight dashboard offering insights into finances, energy use, and indoor conditions to guide choices; plus a digital twin that fine-tunes performance post-installation.
Real-world pilots in Estonia, Italy, and Bulgaria confirmed dramatic boosts in efficiency, occupant comfort, and lower emissions. ENSNARE paves the way for widespread adoption of industrialized, tech-driven retrofits creating next-generation nearly energy-independent structures.
