GARDEN

The GARDEN project applies a structured approach combining co-creation with local stakeholders, development of site-specific energy concepts, flexibility assessments, and computer-based simulations to design and evaluate grid-aware PED solutions. These methods are tailored to three demonstration sites. In Gleisdorf (Austria), the project develops and evaluates decentralized heat pump-based systems for small building clusters, integrates PV and electromobility infrastructure, and proposes innovative tariff and energy community models—especially for areas not connected to district heating. In Massagno (Switzerland), efforts focus on optimizing renovation strategies by ranking buildings according to their controllable flexibility potential and supporting decision-making through a dedicated policy tool. In Sakarya (Türkiye), a key transit hub, the project analyzes EV impact on the grid, identifies optimal fast-charging locations, and tests smart charging and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) strategies to use EVs as flexible storage assets. Each site tests solutions under different scenarios to ensure transferability.

The project expects to deliver a replicable framework for district-level energy management that enhances flexibility and supports the decarbonization of urban neighborhoods. Outcomes include improved grid resilience through smart load management and an increased integration of local renewable energy and e-mobility solutions. Demonstration sites will serve as reference models: Sakarya will showcase grid-optimized EV charging; Massagno will offer data-driven policy support for renovations; and Gleisdorf will pioneer hybrid heating solutions and community-based energy models. Collectively, these outcomes aim to support broader European energy and climate goals by accelerating the transition to sustainable urban energy systems.