BeyondEE Pilot Project Kicks Off in Lappeenranta
The BeyondEE project, a collaborative initiative involving the City of Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan Energia, and Lappeenrannan Asuntopalvelu, has officially begun. As part of the EU’s NetZeroCities program, the project aims to pilot solutions for achieving carbon neutrality in European cities, marking a step forward in Lappeenranta’s climate efforts.
The primary objective is to reduce emissions through smart heating control systems in buildings. Additionally, the project seeks to provide indirect reductions by offering flexibility in district heating capacity, optimizing indoor air conditions and energy efficiency, particularly during peak periods when fossil fuels are used.
Buildings' Role in Energy Consumption
Buildings account for nearly 40% of energy consumption in the EU, playing a crucial role in climate goals. However, outdated infrastructure and inefficient energy use challenge progress. The diversity of building stock, age, and regional factors complicate the integration of modern systems, making it harder to decarbonize energy by 2050. Upgrading to smart-grid-ready systems, optimizing appliances with Energy Management Systems (EMS), and incorporating renewable energy are essential.
New technologies like big data, IoT, AI, and Demand Response present unprecedented opportunities for energy optimization. The EU supports the deployment of advanced EMSs through initiatives such as Horizon Europe, LIFE, and the 100 Climate-Neutral Cities program, encouraging ICT solutions for homes and buildings.
Digitalization enhances energy management, allowing consumers market access and clean energy integration. However, challenges remain, such as promoting acceptance of AI solutions and improving digital literacy. There’s also a knowledge gap between fast-developing technologies and cities’ ability to adopt them.
Commercial Goals and Economic Impact
BeyondEE also has commercial objectives, promoting demand-response solutions in centralized heating. These measures are expected to generate cost savings for both district heating companies and property owners, while offering revenue opportunities for solution providers. The project aims to create a fair model where savings are shared among providers, owners, and energy companies.
Lappeenranta’s Smart Approach
Lappeenranta is committed to deploying Smart Management and ICT solutions. Through its Greenreality initiative, the city is focusing on optimizing heat and power consumption in residential and service buildings. BeyondEE will implement demand-response digital twin solutions to manage peak loads and develop platforms for Positive Energy Districts. AI models will detect heat loss and analyze energy consumption behavior, utilizing extensive data to further optimize services.
“ICT solutions are essential for achieving decentralized, decarbonized energy systems,” noted an energy expert from Lappeenranta Energy Company. “Buildings are key to the energy revolution and will play a critical role in the green energy transition,” the expert concluded.
Two Phases of Implementation
The BeyondEE project will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase (2024-2025 heating season), solutions will be tested in residential buildings, which offer the most potential for energy savings. In the second phase (2025-2026), commercial properties will be targeted, requiring more advanced indoor climate monitoring and flexibility measures.
Funding and Support
The BeyondEE project has secured €600,000 in funding from the EU’s NetZeroCities program, supporting sustainable heating solutions and promoting carbon neutrality in Lappeenranta and beyond.