The research at ZEN Research Centre is divided into 6 work packages, WP1 – WP6.
Work package 6 “Pilot projects and living labs” will function as an innovation hub by bringing together the Centre’s research in several Norwegian pilot projects.
The goals of WP1 are to develop:
The research in WP2 evaluates possible transition pathways towards zero emission neighbourhoods consisting of integrated studies of policy measures, different forms of public-private collaboration, different financial and business models and instruments as well as improved innovation processes.
WP3 aims to create cost effective, responsive, resource and energy efficient buildings by developing low carbon technologies and construction systems based on lifecycle design strategies.
WP4 develops knowledge, technologies and solutions for the design and operation of energy flexible neighbourhoods.
The researchers in WP5 develop and apply methodologies that identify the socio-economic optimal operation and expansion of energy systems within demarked areas.
The ZEN pilot projects serve as innovation hubs for the Centre’s research. They are geographically limited – primarily urban – areas in Norway in which the Centre’s researchers, together with building professionals, property developers, municipalities, energy companies, building owners and users, test new solutions for the construction, operation and use of neighbourhoods in order to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions on a neighbourhood scale to zero.
"Sustainable neighbourhoods with zero greenhouse gas emissions"
©NTNU