The eco- and resource-efficient construction of the Intelligent District Beach Village-UTRA as part of urban development The project is carried out as part of the Finnish Government’s development programme for residential areas, which develops the vitality of the suburbs. The project also targets the promotion of a low-carbon economy. It maps and models the means of transforming the old suburban residential area of an old apartment building type, Rantakylä-Utra, into a modern “SmartCity” district in terms of energy and resource efficiency. At the same time, efforts are being made to significantly reduce the region’s carbon footprint and to take into account biodiversity. The theoretical energy saving potential can be as high as 40 %.The project will carry out an eco-efficiency study of the current state of Rantakylä-Utra (housing stock, transport, services, environment and energy use) using standardised analytical tools and applying previous knowledge and research in suburban and energy efficiency building. Based on the analysis, an overall view of the energy-efficient suburbs is created, and development needs and opportunities as well as different solutions are identified. The condition of the existing building stock and the use of energy will be assessed. The need, options and models for repairing the building stock will be examined taking into account accessibility solutions due to ageing. The framework for an energy-efficient community structure and mobility/transport will be assessed. Identify suitable new energy saving technologies, energy sources and ecological materials. In wood material solutions for renovation and replenishment, cooperation is done with the Bino project of the University of Applied Sciences. The project creates an energy- and resource-efficient model for the renewal of Rantakylä-Utra. The planned technological, material and ancillary construction solutions will be transferred to be implemented as part of urban planning and urban development. The motivation and knowledge base of residents, property owners and other operators for energy saving solutions and renovations will be increased. Independent energy advice is provided (e.g. decision-making models, life-cycle calculations, model calculations). The economic effects of energy efficiency (e.g. increase in value) as well as various financing options are examined for real estate and residents. Solutions are also transferable to other northern Karelian suburbs where applicable. In addition, a business cooperation network and a “development platform” will be created for the energy technology and renovation business to implement and develop planned solutions. The potential of companies to develop products and business models for modernising old suburbs will be supported. The business potential of smart renovations (retrofitting) in old suburbs is high as the housing stock reaches the renovation age and the new construction slows down. In Russia, this also offers opportunities for North Karelian skills.
