A blueprint for the energy transition in existing buildings

Turning a landmark building into a smart energy habitat

The energy transition is not limited to new buildings. In Meerbusch, Germany, the habitat project demonstrates how existing buildings can be transformed for a more sustainable future. By combining photovoltaics, battery storage, heat pump technology, EV charging and intelligent energy management, Hager helped create a connected energy ecosystem that maximises self-consumption, reduces reliance on fossil fuels and prepares the building for future energy challenges.

Preserving the past while preparing for the future

Originally designed in 1967 by architect Wolfgang Döring, habitat is more than a residential building. The protected bungalow and garden ensemble is considered an architectural landmark, making any modernisation project particularly sensitive.

When the building's owners set out to improve its energy performance in 2025, the objective was clear: introduce modern energy technologies while respecting the original design. Working within these constraints, the project team transformed the property into a living example of how heritage buildings can adapt to new energy realities.

One connected energy ecosystem

At the heart of the system is the Hager flow Energy Manager. It brings the different energy flows together and automatically coordinates generation, storage and consumption.

Technology also makes the building's energy use tangible for its occupants and visitors. Through the flow app, an iPad provides a real-time view of how much energy is being generated, stored and consumed.

A 25 kWp photovoltaic installation supplies renewable electricity for the building, while battery storage helps maximise self-consumption. An air-to-water heat pump replaces fossil-fuel-based heating, and EV charging infrastructure supports the electrification of mobility.

Based on energy availability and demand, the Hager flow Energy Manager automatically decides where energy can be used most effectively, helping to optimise self-consumption and overall efficiency. This intelligent orchestration enabled habitat to achieve seven months of complete energy autonomy during the summer period of 2025.

It also prepares the building for the next stage of electrification. With compatible bidirectional charging technology, for example, an electric vehicle could eventually become another source of stored energy and feed electricity back into the building when needed.