The project is being carried out by an international consortium led by Lodz University of Technology. The team from the Department of Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering will be led by Anna Wieprzkowicz, PhD. By combining the expertise and knowledge of institutions from various countries, the SELF-energy project has the potential to introduce breakthrough solutions in facade energy efficiency.
A Modern Facade—More Than Just Insulation
The SELF system will be designed as a multifunctional facade element that integrates three key functions:
1. Active thermal insulation—The facade will respond to changing climatic conditions, minimizing heat loss in winter and excessive overheating in summer.
2. Photovoltaic thermal collector—Facade modules will generate local renewable energy, supporting building operations and reducing reliance on external energy sources.
3. Short-term latent heat storage—This solution will stabilize the building’s internal temperature, improving user comfort and enhancing the efficiency of heating and cooling systems.
Prefabrication and Modularity for Any Building
SELF will be developed as a prefabricated, modular system that can be easily adapted to standard structural grids. This approach makes it suitable for both new construction projects and the retrofitting of existing buildings.
Timeline and Prospects
The project is scheduled for 36 months, with a planned start date of July 1, 2026. During implementation, the consortium will refine the design, integrate technologies, and prepare prototypes for testing under various climatic conditions.
SELF-energy represents an innovation that combines science, technology, functionality, and sustainable development. Such systems enable buildings not only to reduce energy consumption but also to actively produce their own clean energy and ensure user comfort under any conditions.