eNErgy Waste solutions through development of POsitive sChool buildings as sustainable, innovative Hubs for community engagement

Like many other European cities, Kifissia faces the double challenge of an ageing public building stock and insufficient renovation capabilities. In response, the city launched the NEW EPOCH project, using optimised renovation strategies to transform selected school buildings into Positive Energy Educational Buildings (PEEBs) through deep energy retrofitting, innovative construction methods and comprehensive community engagement. Three school buildings in Kifissia will serve as lighthouse projects for other buildings with similar characteristics aiming for climate neutrality. School buildings were chosen because their unique and simple construction layouts make them perfect piloting grounds for a renovation approach that is affordable, transferable and replicable. This original, energy-based renovation methodology, founded on biobased circular material prefabrication , is to be designed, constructed and implemented in the three schools

Kifissia's trailblazing solution is also set to boost similar energy-efficient building renovations in the future. Transforming schools into PEEBs not only reduces energy consumption and improves thermal comfort and indoor air quality for the students, it also increases the quality of education and fosters a culture of sustainability, waste reduction and environmental responsibility. In fact, the renovated schools are designed to become new living labs serving as dynamic innovation hubs for collaboration between the municipality, students, educators and local stakeholders.