Energy-efficient buildings in smart communities

Energy efficiency, optimization and reduction are paramount to effectively powering smart cities, and schools, sports centers, hospitals and public offices are integral components to this process. Enel X continues to be a leader in promoting a circular economy approach by offering strategic energy optimization solutions which reduce electricity and heat consumption in public buildings and C02 emissions in urban areas. Utilizing innovative technologies and energy- efficient solutions in property renovations and sustainable new builds, Enel X continues to advance the development of optimized smart cities, enhancing the overall wellness of their residents and public workers.

On the southwest edge of Lake Garda, Lombardy, is the picturesque town of Desenzano del Garda, with approximately 28,000 inhabitants. Enel X identified a community need that would decrease energy consumption and increase wellness through ground-breaking concepts and smart technology. In 2020, Desenzano del Garda and Enel X came together for energy requalification in six schools including three primary schools and two secondary complexes. The goal was simple: optimize all energy systems including heat and electricity, public lighting and remote monitoring to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption while maintaining and respecting established comfort levels.

Maintaining the integrity of the landscape and the historical value of the buildings was priority for the multi-complex endeavour as the project spanned six buildings. Enel X’s intervention included the installation of new condensing components powered by methane gas which are capable of guaranteeing adequate temperatures, as well as installing thermal energy meters. Also included in the complete overhaul of the heating system was the incorporation of innovative heat exchangers, heat pumps, state-of-the-art installation for windows and doors, thermal efficiency walls, brand new generators and implementing mechanics which favored low-emission condensation and revved up outputs.

The process also involved enhancing lighting equipment with internal and external LED options to ensure a more sustainable illumination and incorporating solar panels to reduce electricity costs. 

Furthermore, the multi-faceted approach optimized the management of clean energy consumption, utilizing high-efficiency cogeneration and trigeneration systems. The project is a clear example of a successful and sustainable demand response solution.

Enel X’s innovative technology allowed for the intelligent management of the system via remote control operations, enabling a more accurate management of the system’s main elements including heat control, the placement of alarms and valves, as well as providing accurate status updates. By increasing energy efficiency and further reducing energy consumption, Enel X developed a system which relies on static ultrasound elements and smart water treatment methods. These components all contribute to enhanced functionality and an overall reduction in the need for constant maintenance.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” The Enel X intervention, stemming from a deep dive in how to innovate energy systems in the education sector, resulted in the optimization of six Desenzano del Garda schools outfitted for energy efficiency.  Modernizing energy management systems via digitalized technology not only improves heat, lighting and other types of energy efficiency but it has also led to incredible reductions in air pollution for urban environments.  The project has reduced CO2 emissions by 390 tonnes per year and saved 190 Tonnes of Oil Equivalent (TOE).

These energy-saving solutions have led to a better quality of life for Lake Garda residents, acting as a catalyst for other public and private entities to follow suit. And, most importantly, the project increased the green landscape with the addition of 10,000 new trees planted.

Smart schools lead to smart communities. Enel X is forging the road in strategic energy optimization solutions that lay the building blocks for energy efficient communities and continue the development of smart cities.