SchrittZuKlimafit

The heat transition poses a major challenge, particularly in existing urban neighborhoods with diverse building structures. The Kriegerheimstätten cooperative in Vienna’s 22nd district has a mixed building stock consisting of row houses (with gas heating) and multi-family residential buildings (connected to district heating), supplemented by a planned urban densification with approximately 100 new residential units. This combination presents a unique “window of opportunity” to implement a neighborhood-wide anergy network. However, there is currently a lack of reliable evidence to support decision-making and to provide a comprehensive, society-wide assessment of the technical feasibility, economic viability, and social viability of a phased transition to a climate-neutral supply system.

Objective of the SchrittZuKlimafit project

The primary objective of this exploratory study is to develop a decision-making framework ready for implementation for a renewable heat supply based on an anergy network. What makes the approach innovative is the phased and modular integration of existing buildings into a cross-property anergy network developed in the course of urban densification. In this process, technical planning is to be closely linked to organizational and financial implementation pathways as well as participatory elements. Additionally, the study will examine how cooling can be implemented via the anergy network and how synergies with renovation measures (e.g., accessibility, living comfort) can be leveraged.

Approach and methodology of the SchrittZuKlimafit project

The project follows an interdisciplinary structure and is divided into seven work packages. Following a comprehensive review of the technical, legal, and social framework conditions (WP2), WP3 analyzes technical scenarios and feasibility. In parallel, WP4 launches a participatory engagement process with residents to identify needs, barriers, and individual connection options. In WP5, viable organizational and financing models will be developed that also take into account ownership structures, funding models, and social justice. WP6 will consolidate all findings into a roadmap for implementation. Finally, the results will be incorporated into strategic dissemination formats in WP7 to ensure knowledge transfer.

Expected results of the SchrittZuKlimafit project

The project provides a comprehensive basis for decision-making regarding the implementation of a cross-property anergy network in existing urban buildings. This includes:

• Technically and economically optimized supply scenarios
• An organizational model for operation and control
• A financing concept that takes social feasibility into account
• A roadmap with expansion phases and an implementation timeline
• A participatory decision-making process within the cooperative
• Feedback for the further development of urban funding and advisory tools

Benefits and impact of the SchrittZuKlimafit project

The project advances the heat transition through a systemic approach to existing urban neighborhoods and establishes a solid foundation for climate-neutral heating solutions. From an environmental perspective, significant emissions reductions are expected through the replacement of fossil fuel-based heating systems. Economically, the project offers the opportunity for long-term, sustainable investment and operating models, as well as more predictable energy costs. From a social perspective, the early involvement of residents is particularly relevant, as it increases acceptance, social viability, and feasibility. The approach developed is transferable to other cooperatives and neighborhoods and can provide impetus for follow-up projects as well as for the further development of urban funding and advisory tools.

This project is funded by the “Leuchttürme der Wärmewende (Flagship Projects for the Heating Transition)” program and is being carried out as part of the Alliance for Green Heating and Cooling innovation Lab.