EffiComfort: An Innovative Business Model for Energy Efficiency and IEQ

Despite significant efforts by the City of Ljubljana (CoL) to retrofit public buildings through Energy Performance Contracting (EPC), the approach has proven costly and slow, failing to ensure optimal Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). The existing “23°C 24/7” model results in unnecessary energy consumption and neglects real-time comfort needs of occupants.

EffiComfort introduces a dynamic “Comfort as a Service” (CaaS) business model. It integrates real-time energy and comfort management via IoT sensors and performance-based contracts. The solution includes Thermal Acclimatization Training (TAT) and smart HVAC systems that balance comfort, health, and energy efficiency in public and residential buildings.

The project aims to reduce energy use in buildings by up to 25%, improve occupant satisfaction and well-being, and establish a scalable PPP-based model that can be replicated in other cities. It also contributes to climate neutrality targets under the EU Cities Mission.