EVELIXIA: Turning buildings into active utility nodes

EVELIXIA envisions a future where buildings are smart, sustainable and fully integrated into the energy ecosystem.

Imagine a world where buildings aren’t just spaces to live or work but active participants in shaping a greener future.

EVELIXIA brings this vision to life by reimagining homes, offices and public spaces as dynamic energy hubs that adapt to user needs, respond to the energy grid and reduce waste, all while making life more comfortable and sustainable.

By transforming European buildings into active utility nodes, the project seeks to:
● Enhance energy efficiency and flexibility.
● Facilitate two-way communication between the grid and occupants.
● Utilise innovative systems to reduce energy waste and optimise renewable energy use.

With a projected 17% reduction in GHG emissions, an increase in flexibility of 25% and energy consumption reduced by 13.5%, EVELIXIA is a cornerstone for the EU’s green energy transition.

Focus on EVELIXIA technologies

EVELIXIA leverages a suite of advanced technologies to achieve its goals.

Smart analytics and real-time monitoring systems enable buildings to adapt energy usage to the needs of both occupants and the grid. Flexible hardware and sensors make it possible to store excess renewable energy, trade energy with neighbors and manage peak demand efficiently.

With innovative human-to-building interfaces, EVELIXIA ensures users are actively engaged, making sustainability accessible and intuitive.

The project also introduces dynamic flexibility services, allowing buildings to serve as active players in energy markets by adjusting consumption patterns in response to price signals or renewable availability.

This technology not only reduces costs but also enhances the integration of renewable energy sources.

EVELIXIA pilot sites

EVELIXIA’s vision is being tested and refined in seven pilot sites across Europe.

These pilot sites represent a diverse array of building types, climates and energy challenges, allowing EVELIXIA to develop and refine solutions that are scalable across Europe.

By involving occupants and stakeholders in every step, the project ensures that the technologies are not only innovative but also aligned with real-world needs.

The seven pilot sites are as follows:

E-Factory (France)
The E-factory in Quimper, France, serves as Entech smart energies’ headquarters, focusing on renewable energy production and storage. The EVELIXIA project will introduce hydrogen-based storage and an advanced energy management system to enhance self-consumption and coordination.

Nine apartment blocks (Denmark)
The Danish pilot site in Aabenraa, featuring 283 renovated apartments, aims to enhance energy efficiency with EV charging, batteries, PV panels and energy management systems, improving grid flexibility and reducing energy consumption.

Residential district (Finland)
In Naantali, Finland, the Lounatuuli district features modern homes with renewable energy systems. The EVELIXIA project will test innovative solutions for 21 apartments, focusing on thermal energy production and smart grid integration.

University Campus dormitories and restaurant (Romania)
At the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, the pilot site includes two 11-floor dormitories and a restaurant. Despite insulation, the energy use intensity remains high, presenting an opportunity for further efficiency improvements.

Hospital and CERTH/CPERI building (Greece)
In Ptolemaida, Greece, the EVELIXIA project focuses on optimising energy management at Bodosakeio Hospital and CERTH/CPERI, collaborating with energy providers to enhance renewable energy production and improve system efficiency.

EcoEnergyland cooperative (Austria)
The Strem pilot site, part of ecoEnergyland in Austria, features a mix of buildings and renewable energy systems. EVELIXIA aims to use energy flexibilities and empower community participation to optimise energy management.

Ski resort (Spain)
Manzaneda ski resort in Spain integrates alternative energy and emission-reducing technologies. The EVELIXIA project will enhance energy flexibility, improve power management and enable active market participation to address energy sector challenges.

For more on EVELIXIA, visit the website and view the video teaser.

Author: Elisa Crocco, Project Manager, RINA Consulting.