WP1: Exploration for Smart Living EPCs

WP1 aims to explore the technological and market conditions where SmartLivingEPC will be realized, as well as to investigate the challenges of current EPC schemes. This work package will set out the conceptual and contextual ground for the SmartLivingEPC envisioned in the project (state-of-the-art analysis, user requirements, market trends and detailed scope) as well as define the specifications and detailed architecture of the project.

• D1.1: From EPC schemes gaps and opportunities to SmartLivingEPC requirements, recommendations and market needs

  Due date: 22/02/2023 - Task leader: R2M

  This deliverable includes the results from T1.1 and T1.2. T1.1 concerns the current EPC rating schemes and their challenges and opportunities. The results of this task are reported in Chapters 2 and 2.12, which present the identification of the current methodology used at the EU level for the EPC definition, a map of the methodology used for calculation methods, the identification of the barriers in each country, as well as best practices. The analysis is conducted in ten EU countries (Italy, Austria, Greece, Estonia, France, Spain, Belgium, Romania, Germany and Cyprus).
  
  In parallel to this review of the current EPC methodologies employed in Europe, stakeholders have been consulted directly. In a first phase, (i) the different types of stakeholders that can contribute with valuable insight to this project are identified and (ii) a stakeholder map is built, as presented in Chapter 3.1. And in a second phase, a direct consultation with a variety of stakeholders related to these certificates is opened, so that they could share their perceptions, opinions and approaches with respect to the current tools and also the context in which these certificates are used. The aim is to identify the strong points to maintain, but also the weak points to improve and/or rethink, with interesting proposals (Chapter 3.2). In Chapter 3.3, the main suggestions regarding EPCs from the latest European proposals that will be properly incorporated into the new version of the EPBD recast are collected, and the contributions of the European sister programs to the new generation of EPCs are reviewed. Then the factors identified in this chapter are crossed adding academic contributions (since the regulatory level is collected in chapter 2) to configure a diagnosis of strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats for energy efficiency certificates, as well as suggestions and contributions for the design of the next-generation of EPCs.

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• D1.2: SmartLivingEPC pilot analysis, Use case scenarios and Framework Architecture v1

  Due date: 30/04/2023 - Task leader: CERTH

  This deliverable is a joint presentation of the work carried out under T1.3-Pilot Surveys and Use Case Scenarios definition and T1.4-Technical requirements & architecture design. The development process has taken into consideration the project’s methodology requirements, stakeholders’ needs, and the characteristics of the pilot sites to provide a holistic solution and lay the groundwork for the efficient development of SmartLivingEPC’s digital platform. An in-depth analysis of the proposed architecture framework is included from various viewpoints to ensure the validity and robustness of the proposed solution.

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WP2: SmartLivingEPC Framework Asset Methodology

The objective of WP2 is the establishment of EPC framework asset methodology where SRI analysis, life cycle assessment tools, non energy aspects and technical audits and inspections of the building are integrated into one uniform rating system of the energy performance of buildings as well as the introduction of a new scheme of rating at a building complex level. In that sense, the building level classification will result as a weighted average of four other indicators, that is the SRI, the Level(s), the energy performance rating and the results from technical audits.

• D2.1: Asset methodology assessment in building level v1

  Due date: 31/08/2023 - Task leader: FRC

  Within WP2, “SmartLivingEPC Framework Asset Methodology”, the actions for the establishment of the smart EPC asset methodology will be performed. In short, smartness, sustainability, and audit and technical inspection aspects are integrated into one uniform rating system of the energy performance of buildings as well as the introduction of a new rating scheme at a building complex level. In that sense, the building level classification will result in a weighted average of four other indicators: the SRI, the Level(s), the energy performance rating, and the results from technical audits.

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• D2.2: Asset methodology assessment in building complex level v1

  Due date: 10/11/2023 - Task leader: UDEUSTO

  This deliverable comprises five chapters, each contributing insights to the development of an asset methodology for complex buildings scale. Chapter 1 serves as an introduction, outlining the objectives and scope of the deliverable, aligned with the Grant Agreement proposal. Chapter 2 offers an extensive review of 50 Urban Sustainability Frameworks, 40 Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment tools, and the five 'overarching' EPB standards (ISO 52000-1, 52003-1, 52010-1, 52016-1, and 52018-1). Additionally, a thorough analysis of the most frequent indicators of sustainability is highlighted. In Chapter 3, the aim to identify Energy-Consuming Services on a Neighbourhood Scale. This leads to the proposal of a comprehensive classification of energy-consuming services at the neighbourhood scale. Chapter 4 delves into a discussion surrounding the concepts of Energy Communities and Smart Grids, providing critical insights into their significance for the overall operational methodology. The central theme of Chapter 5 presents the criteria for defining a Neighbourhood Classification, offering guidelines for the appropriate corrections and adaptations for delimitating the assessment area to evaluate the energy consumption. The extensive review of existing frameworks, tools, and standards ensures a solid foundation for the proposed operational methodology. This deliverable lays the groundwork for future advancements in the development of an Energy Performance Certificate for neighbourhood scale.

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• D2.3: Asset rating calculation methodology of SmartLivingEPC v1

  Due date: 15/12/2023 - Task leader: AIIR

  This deliverable belongs to WP2, which focuses on the formulation of strategies for evaluating building performance. D2.3 plays a crucial role in this work package, as its objective is to establish the computation technique for asset ratings within the context of SmartLivingEPC. The main aim of D2.3 is to establish a rigorous, all-encompassing, and widely recognized approach for determining asset ratings along with the weighting procedure proposal. The proposed technique aims to incorporate a range of performance metrics, encompassing energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, smart preparedness, as well as non-energy factors such as indoor environmental quality and accessibility.

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WP3: SmartLivingEPC Framework Operational Methodology

The objective of WP3 is the development of EPC framework operational methodology with the integration of other aspects rather than the energy performance such as indoor environment quality including infection risk probability, life cycle analysis and the assessment of operational methodology in a building complex level.

• D3.1: Operational assessment methodology in building level v1

  Due date: 31/08/2023 - Task leader: FRC

  WP3 centers its objective on the development of an EPC framework operational methodology, which extends beyond conventional energy performance considerations. This integrated approach embraces various aspects that significantly influence building performance and occupant satisfaction through the implementation of its tasks (T). Notably, it emphasizes the incorporation of additional critical characteristics, such as indoor environment quality (IEQ) – T3.1, assessment of operational methodologies – T3.2, and life cycle costing (LCC) of building assets – T3.3, at the complex building level.

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• D3.2: Operational assessment methodology in building complex level v1

  Due date: 10/11/2023 - Task leader: UDEUSTO

  This deliverable comprises five chapters, each contributing valuable insights to the development of an operational methodology for scaling complex buildings. Chapter 1 serves as an introduction, outlining the objectives and scope of the deliverable. Chapter 2 delves into the concept of Operational Rating. The baseline, representing the average energy use for a group of buildings of the same function, is essential in this rating approach. Additionally, the technical underpinning of the Operational Rating is illustrated through relevant equations. Chapter 3 explores the advancements in novel technologies such as information and communications technology (ICT), internet of things (IoT), Big Data, cloud computing, wireless sensors, and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies are identified as accelerators in the development of neighbourhoods' energy conservation systems. Furthermore, a preliminary taxonomy of Operational Assess Rating Indicators is presented in section 3.2. In Chapter 4, a detailed discussion addresses the challenges of operating digital twins in the urban context. These digital twins serve as virtual models of physical assets in cities, enabling data analysis and simulations to support informed decision-making. The concluding chapter summarizes the primary findings and contributions of the deliverable. It also lays the groundwork for future directions to advance the project's development. Overall, this deliverable provides valuable insights and establishes a foundation for further research and development in the area of operational energy rating for building complexes. The integration of cutting-edge technologies and digital twin practices opens new possibilities for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in urban environments. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented in this deliverable, future endeavours in the project will be well-positioned to make substantial contributions to the field of smart sustainable cities.

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• D3.3: Operational rating calculation methodology of SmartLivingEPC v1

  Due date: 08/12/2023 - Task leader: FRC

  The scope of this deliverable is extensive, covering the theoretical underpinnings, practical methodologies, and technological aspects of a new, integrated operational rating system for buildings. It aims to provide a more nuanced, accurate, and comprehensive assessment of building performance, considering a wide array of factors beyond just energy consumption.

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WP4: Building digitalization towards Smart Living EPCs

The objective of WP4 isthe development of theSmartLivingEPC’s CIEM along with an IoT platform for the visualization and decision making assistance related to building performance. Furthermore, it will develop a digital twin tool along with a digital logbook for data and actions logging. Finally, APIs for the calculation of the envisioned EPCs will be developed.

WP5: Added Value tools for Smart Living EPCs at Building and Complex Level

The objective of WP5 is the development of project AI added value tools and the benchmarking and evaluation tools.
Also, advanced UIs and visual analytics will be developed for visualizing the information to the end-users. Finally, this WP will integrate all SmartLivingEPC components to one unified working framework.

WP6: Demonstration and Impact Assessment

- Provide training and guidance for SmartLivingEPC implementation
- Analysis and preparation of the SmartLivingEPC pilot sites;
- Deployment of the SmartLivingEPC solutions at the pilot sites and validation of the integrated framework;
- Evaluate the impact achieved by the SmartLivingEPC framework implementation at pilot buildings;
- Consolidate lessons learned from real-life demonstrations.

WP7: Communication, Dissemination & Exploitation

This WP aims to guarantee a professional coverage of the project results & outcomes through communication & dissemination activities that give the project a public image. This image is not only important for the general public but also for reaching out towards specific target groups such as policy-makers, national & EU-stakeholders & building professionals. These activities will aim to:
- Make a professional Communication & Dissemination Plan which serves as the foundation for setting up the communication tools, channels & activities to ensure optimal coverage of the project results & outcomes.
- Exploitation plan for the project results & outcomes to ensure a long-term impact on energy performance assessment & certification.
- Engage with other projects & initiatives to support clustering and enhance knowledge sharing and cooperation among stakeholders.

• D7.1: Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication Plan v1

  Due date: 14/12/2022 - Task leader: REHVA

  The 1st release of the Communication, Exploitation & Dissemination Plan outlines the process behind the development of the SmartLivingEPC communication and dissemination strategy and objectives as well as the exploitation plan and objectives. The purpose of the document is also to define SmartLivingEPC target audience, how the consortium aims to reach it, the channels and tools that will be used for communication and dissemination and a draft list of planned activities, which at this moment in time are mostly based on the Grant Agreement.
  SmartLivingEPC’s overall dissemination, exploitation and communication strategy is articulated in three main phases:
  
  - Phase I – Raise awareness/interest among key stakeholders (Y1): SmartLivingEPC will focus on establishing a common project identity, raising awareness and interest regarding the project’s expected results, as well as, identifying the target groups and main project’ stakeholders.
  - Phase II – Enhance acceptance of KERs (Y2-Y3): SmartLivingEPC will focus on disseminating its KERs with a view to clearly demonstrate the benefits of the proposed novel solutions, supporting future exploitation of results. Key activities to be conducted during Phase II include publications about project results, the organization of conferences, events, workshops, and participatory activities (e.g., labs) promoting knowledge exchange.
  - Phase III – Foster uptake and replication of KERs (Y3 and beyond): SmartLivingEPC will focus on promoting the final KERs and BMs developed, creating the preconditions in order to stimulate broader scalability/replication and engage new end-users and wider audiences. The end-goal of Phase III is to facilitate the market uptake of its KERs and ensure that project’s results will continue to be disseminated after the project’s end.
  
  This document outlines the planned activities and will act as a strategy guide for SmartLivingEPC partners on how to reach the target audience and the different stakeholders and how the project intends to use the communication channels and tools during the first phase of the communication strategy from M1 to M18 (due date for v2 of this deliverable). The list of planned activities will be continuously updated and can be tracked as described in the Chapter 11 of this Deliverable. The planned activities for communication & dissemination efforts, first of all, entail the setting up of all the communication channels such as the SmartLivingEPC social media (Twitter, LinkedIn), the development of the visual identity, as well as the website which will be the main interface for sharing information on the project.
  
  This deliverable is written by REHVA with the collaboration of the task leaders of the WP7: DEMO, ASI, R2M, and ANEC.

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• D7.2: Project Website, Social Media & Visual Identity Package

  Due date: 20/12/2022 - Task leader: DEMO

  This report describes the deliverable D7.2 “Project Website, Social Media & Visual Identity Package”. It is part of task 7.2 “Communication & dissemination tools, material & channels” and it summarizes the activities performed to establish the communication channels and protocols. Project communication includes dissemination materials for partners’ use when carrying out dissemination and communication activities.
  
  Additionally, it contains the corporate design, presentation, and report templates to be used throughout the duration of the project.
  
  Deliverable 7.2 covers:
  • SmartLivingEPC public website
  • SmartLivingEPC SharePoint internal website for information sharing among the consortium partners
  • Access and instructions to use the SharePoint site
  • Protocols for Content Management System (CMS) and updates of the public website
  • Setup and maintenance of social media channels LinkedIn page, Twitter account, and YouTube channel
  • SmartLivingEPC logo and corporate design
  • SmartLivingEPC presentation and document templates
  • SmartLivingEPC half-yearly newsletter template

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• D7.4: Project events & Liaising with other projects & initiatives v1

  Due date: 31/01/2024 - Task leader: REHVA

  The purpose of Deliverable D7.4 is to systematically document and elaborate on the planning, execution, and outcomes of project events within the framework of the SmartLivingEPC Project. Furthermore, it aims to provide insights into the collaborative efforts established with external projects and initiatives, emphasizing the significance of fostering partnerships for the project's success.
  This deliverable serves as a comprehensive reference guide that outlines the strategies, methodologies, and outcomes associated with project events and collaborations. It encapsulates the essence of the project's interactions both within its internal team and with external entities, highlighting the interconnectedness of these activities in achieving the overarching goals of the SmartLivingEPC Project.

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• D7.6: Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication Plan v2

  Due date: 31/01/2024 - Task leader: REHVA

  The 2nd release of the Communication, Exploitation & Dissemination (CED) Plan outlines the main activities that occurred from M6 to M18 for the SmartLivingEPC communication and dissemination strategy. It describes the following topics: Communication and Dissemination Objectives, Stakeholder Management Plan (SMP)- Identification of Target Groups, CDE Strategy, Communication & Dissemination Tools, Material & Channels, Communication & Dissemination Events, Policy, Standardization, and Best Practices, Exploitation Activities, Business Models, and IPR Management, Liaising with Sister Projects and Other Initiatives, Reporting of Activities Methodology, Planned Activities.

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WP8: Project Management & Coordination

To coordinate the technological and scientific orientation of the project, fostering the flow of information between participants and between WPs and provide the communication with the EC; To ensure the delivery of the project on time and within the budget and that the project maintains its relevance towards the objectives; To guarantee high-quality standards at all levels and the accomplishment of the objectives; To manage resources, monitor the overall project performance and manage risks, ethics, and contingencies; To establish appropriate relationships and communication channels with the funding actors as well as between consortium partners; To effectively monitor & coordinate the issues related to Ethics stemming from the technologies to be employed in the project.

• D8.1: Project Management, Quality & Risk Assessment Plan v1

  Due date: 01/11/2022 - Task leader: CERTH

  The present D8.1, titled Project Management Plan, Quality & Risk Assessment Plan v1, falls under WP8, and presents the project management and administrative roadmap for the SmartLivingEPC project, which is supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. This deliverable covers the project management procedures and details on the project managerial bodies and responsibilities. Its content is based on all the initial project description documents, namely Description of Action (DoA), the Grant Agreement and the Consortium Agreement.
  
  In order to define the framework for cooperation and facilitate coordination among the partners, the Project Management bodies are carefully presented in this document, along with their respective roles and responsibilities. Basically, the D8.1 report includes detailed instructions for all management-related tasks that will guarantee a continuous project workflow and the accomplishment of the project's technological goals. An ethics advisory board will handle any privacy and ethical concerns that may arise during the project regarding the data processing of the end-user participants in the pilots’ demonstration.
  
  The Quality and Risk Assessment Plan is also discussed along with the Project Management Plan and relates to the evaluation procedure and processes of work progress along with corrective actions and contingency plans in case of deviations. Furthermore, it provides the risk management and mitigation actions ensuring smooth coordination of the project for a high quality of results and implementation.
  
  The following areas are covered by D8.1:
  ● Management structure and roles
  ● Project Management Plan and work breakdown structure
  ● Communication and Information exchange
  ● Quality Assessment Plan
  ● Risk Management
  
  It should be mentioned that this is a living document that can be updated along with the project’s progress in order to outline responsibility changes and potential amendments.

  Not publically available
• D8.2: Report on Management and Technical Progress v1

  Due date: 09/02/2023 - Task leader: CERTH

  This document reports the main achievements in the current reporting period (M1-M6, July 2022- December 2022) of the SmartLivingEPC project for the active WPs and the corresponding activities.
  
  The SmartLivingEPC project started on the 1st of July 2023, with the kick off meeting taking place on the 19th and 20th of July, 2023, in the premises of CERTH in Thessaloniki, Greece in a hybrid mode.
  
  During the first six months of the project a number of tasks have kicked off, including:
  • All tasks of WP1
  • TT2.1, T2.2 and T2.3
  • T3.1, T3.2, T3.3
  • T7.1, T7.2, T7.3 and T7.5, and
  • All tasks from WP8
  
  Special focus was given to the deliverables submitted and prepared (D7.1, D7.2, D8.1, D8.2 and D8.3).
  One of the main achievements during the reporting period was the creation and circulation of a questionnaire among partners that provided information on the current EPC calculation methodology used and the definition of energy performance on buildings, as well as on the current requirements and main challenges and key features that should be taken into consideration in the development of EPC schemes in Greece, Estonia, Spain, Cyprus, Belgium, German, Austria, Italy and France.
  
  Special focus was also given to the use cases scenarios identification, the stakeholders’ requirements and market needs and the definition of the architecture of the SmartLivingEPC platform.
  
  In the current deliverable, for each WP, the objectives for the reporting period are provided by the corresponding leaders as well as an overview of the status and progress per Task. Furthermore, any deviations from DoA and corrective actions taken by the partners are outlined, whereas planned activities for the next period are reported in advance.

  Not publically available
• D8.3: Data Management Plan v1

  Due date: 10/02/2023 - Task leader: CERTH

  The current document is the deliverable D8.4 associated with the initial project data management plan (DMP). The created datasets' first versions are shown throughout the document along with the following details:
  
  • Procedures for managing research data both during and after project completion;
  • Type and short description of the datasets to be produced, collected and processed;
  • Standards and formats concerning the metadata; and
  • Data exchange, exploitation, and preservation knowledge.
  
  For the preparation of the deliverable, an appropriate dataset template was created and sent to partners who are responsible for specific components and their corresponding produced datasets.
  
  In the Data management Plan it is also included the procedures that all consortium members will follow according to the ethics standards presented in this plan.
  
  The SmartLivingEPC project will gather and analyse data from different pilot sites in Greece, Cyprus, Spain and Estonia to determine how effective the proposed solution is. It is emphasized that ethical questions about the privacy and confidentiality of data collecting and processing may come up throughout the execution of the project operations. These potentially serious difficulties are seen to be quite prevalent in the circumstances of ICT and IoT projects and activities. The SmartLivingEPC consortium has given these issues its full attention and has designed a pilot ethical methodology and an ethical management plan for this purpose in accordance with both national and European Union (EU) laws. This strategy also makes it possible for the project participants to communicate data in a secure manner.
  
  The datasets will be expanded as the associated tasks and pilot activities proceed, and the information on the templates will be updated. On M24, the updated information is expected to be included in the next version of the deliverable.

  Not publically available
• D8.4: Report on Management and Technical Progress v2

  Due date: 31/07/2023 - Task leader: CERTH

  Project progress report until M12

  Not publically available