The 12-month evaluation period provided a comprehensive assessment of SUREFIT technologies in real European homes under everyday conditions. Results demonstrated that these technologies can significantly reduce residential energy consumption—by over 50% in most cases, with certain combinations achieving reductions exceeding 62%.
Passive technologies delivered immediate benefits. The new exterior insulation system, incorporating an insulation vapor barrier and prefabricated insulated panels, enabled rapid insulation of properties with minimal disruption to occupants. The permeable barrier allowed sufficient air circulation, maintaining airtightness while ensuring proper insulation.
Aerogel insulation proved to be an effective solution for interior insulation, requiring minimal thickness that did not significantly impact room size. PCM panels effectively moderated indoor temperatures, transforming previously unusable rooms into comfortable spaces, even during the peak of Mediterranean summers.
PV vacuum glazing emerged as a promising technology, offering superior insulation while simultaneously generating electricity for homes. Additionally, daylight blinds played a crucial role in preventing overheating and enhancing daylight autonomy through their optical louver systems. Installed both internally and in box windows, these blinds were preferred by users due to their improved transparency and overall effectiveness.
Active technologies, including PV solar systems, ground source heat pumps, solar-assisted heat pumps, and window heat recovery systems, were also thoroughly evaluated under the SUREFIT program.
Smart control systems integrated into solar PV setups significantly reduced grid electricity demand, optimizing solar power use for home energy management. The ground source heat pump system proved viable for installation in smaller gardens, common throughout Europe. Meanwhile, the solar-assisted heat pump and thermal storage system effectively enhanced heat pump performance, ensuring reliable heat supply throughout the night.
The window heat recovery system demonstrated its functionality but faced development challenges, particularly noise issues, which limited user acceptance and overall adoption.
Overall, SUREFIT technologies successfully reduced home energy consumption, improved user comfort, and enhanced air quality. While passive technologies appear poised for widespread adoption in new construction and home renovations, active technologies—despite their effectiveness—require further development before full commercialization.
Throughout this reporting period, continuous updates were made to the project’s website and social media channels (LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter). Project partners collaborated to plan their dissemination activities over the project’s duration.
Initial promotional materials, including banners, leaflets, and posters, were revised for distribution in scheduled outreach efforts. The project hosted two scientific workshops and participated in three conferences. Furthermore, project findings were presented through oral presentations at three conferences, alongside one publication in a scientific journal.
Finally, the consortium continuously monitored the project to ensure compliance with ethical requirements.
