Graz's Vision

Graz is a rapidly expanding city with a population that is expected to double by 2050. Located in a geographical basin, the city has difficulties with local air quality and is looking to invest in cleaner energy and transport which will help it to grow sustainably while maintaining a high quality of life.
Needs Assessment
Graz has identified two areas for redevelopment: SC Waagner Biro and Graz Reinighaus. These are busy districts in the centre of the city with active, engaged populations.
Particular difficulties identified in these districts include:
- High energy usage
- Air pollution
- Reliance on traditional fossil fuels
- Heavy reliance on motor-driven private transport
Replication Plan
As a follower city within GrowSmarter, Graz aims to work with Stockholm, Cologne and Barcelona to:
- Maximise resource efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Reduce land consumption for buildings and infrastructure
- Construct compact, energy-optimised building structures
- Optimise development of public transport infrastructure

Christian Nussmüller is leading the replication process for Graz.
12 Smart Solutions
Click on the headings below to find out which of the 12 Smart Solutions Graz is planning to replicate:

Low Energy District
1. Efficient and smart climate shell refurbishment
Windows with extra low U-values
Reducing hotwater losses with new solutions, hot water converter losses
Recovering waste water heat from the drain
Energy classified hot water fixtures
New efficient exhaust air heat pumps
New adaptive control and regulation techniques for heating systems
Energy quality assurance
Air tightness
Efficient lighting
3. Smart energy-saving tenants
Active house/Home Energy Management Systems/Smart home system
An open home net
Energy Visualization
Smart plugs, connected lighting and thermostats
Dynamic price models
Individual energy metering
CO2 signal
Energy Saving Center

Integrated Infrastructure
5. Smart street lighting
lampposts as base for sensors, wifi, mobile network
6. Waste heat recovery
Open district heating with feed in of waste heat
Waste heat from data centers and vacuum waste systems
Waste heat from fridges and freezers in supermarkets

Sustainable Urban Mobility
12. Smart mobility solutions
Green parking index in combination with car sharing pool with EV
Electrical and cargo bike pool