A parking garage that generates electricity. A noise barrier that provides solar energy. What still sounds unusual today is the focus of a research project at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences (HTW Dresden). The MUBARES early-career research group is investigating how structures can do more than just fulfill their intended purpose in the future – namely, supply renewable energy.
This could allow them to become part of a decentralized energy supply. The focus is not only on electricity but also on issues of climate resilience, cost-effectiveness, and the smart integration of renewable energy into existing systems.
“We no longer want to view buildings merely as passive infrastructure, but as active components of future energy systems,” says group leader Carolin Fischer. Existing buildings and infrastructure offer great potential for efficiently integrating renewable energy into urban spaces.
