Buildings & Energy Systems

The iBES team focuses on industrialising renovation processes to achieve climate targets. This approach consists of four steps: analysing the construction chain, developing standardised products and processes, and implementation at scale. With the contingent approach, we aim to accelerate the renovation of 8 million homes in the Netherlands with standardised and industrial products and processes. Cooperation within the Verbouwstromen (Renovation Flows) Programme and the development of tools provides opportunities for licences and spin-outs.

This domain focuses on improving and scaling up sustainable installations, such as heat pumps, by combining field measurements, models, and lab data. It concentrates on the performance of plant engineering systems and components. The performance of new technologies is better aligned to real-world conditions, leading to better implementation and acceptance of renewable energy solutions. An important activity in this context is the translation of complex physical issues into outcomes that can be applied in practice. To this end, the team uses system-level research models. Where necessary, the physics will be complemented by AI-based techniques and advanced HVAC laboratory facilities.

To predict and improve building performance, the EMMC team develops tools and models in areas such as carbon emissions, indoor air quality, and energy use. It works on detailed energy performance models, co-writes national and international standards, and creates tools against grid congestion, focusing on energy management and user behaviour. Research combines lab and field data with the social sciences to balance comfort, health, and energy efficiency.

Furthermore, TNO conducts indoor environmental quality (IEQ) research by testing systems and modelling user behaviour. It focuses on comfort, health, and financial sustainability, with innovative techniques for ventilation and emission analysis.
The EMMC team also investigates how residents’ interactions with building technologies may improve energy efficiency and comfort.

TNO aims to create safe, sustainable, and affordable buildings for healthcare, with a focus on health-promoting design (with attention to the effects of material use and air quality), reduced consumption of energy and raw materials, and strategic support (efficient use of buildings, portfolio management, climate adaptation, and health in the built environment). In this work, we use our expertise in building technology, indoor environmental quality, and supply and demand development, complemented by domain knowledge, for innovative solutions in healthcare. For instance, TNO is a recognised independent expert within the Care Sustainability Expertise Centre and a connector between government, the healthcare sector, and industry. With our approach, we combine technology, construction physics, architecture, and the social sciences, and initiate research and innovation alliances.

TNO develops models that describe both technical aspects and user behaviour, such as the SirinE digital twin model. These tools predict and optimise energy performance, which is essential for the EPBD 4 directive.

TNO develops standards and practical guidelines that public authorities use in regulations.

TNO studies how residents’ interactions with building technologies may improve energy efficiency and comfort. This includes interview techniques, field studies, and a multidisciplinary approach for practical applications in energy-efficient renovations and new buildings.

Innovations are made available through licensing and contract research, which contributes to making the built environment more sustainable.

TNO brings parties together to tackle challenges, as in the TDI500 initiative to install 500 extra heat pumps per day – crucial for the energy transition.