TRON Research Building, Mainz
Sustainable energy supply well thought out – MorgenGrün develops an energy concept for maximum efficiency and independence
TRON gGmbh, a translational research institute in Mainz, is expanding its capacity with a new building offering around 10,000 m² of usable space. In the immediate vicinity of the University Medical Centre, a light-flooded building with laboratories, offices and communication zones is being constructed, offering researchers from all over the world space for the joint development of innovative cutting-edge technologies.
The planning and execution should be awarded to a general contractor in a competitive tendering process. Nickl & Partner was brought in as architect to prepare for the competitive tendering process.
Sustainability right from the start
To ensure that the construction project met the client's high sustainability requirements from the outset, MorgenGrün – Innovationen von ZWP was commissioned to develop a sustainable energy concept as part of the functional specifications.
At the same time, our team also provided advice on fundamental technical development issues to ensure an energy-efficient, sustainable and economically viable solution from the earliest planning stage onwards.
Holistic energy design
The study examined numerous concept variants that would ensure a long-term, economical and independent energy supply. The most economical option was found to be the use of reversible air heat pumps, which can both supply heat and provide cooling in summer. For extreme winter weather conditions, a direct electric peak load boiler is provided to raise the flow temperature when outside temperatures are very low. A compression refrigeration machine provides cooling for IT and special equipment throughout the year, with the waste heat being fed into the heating system in winter.
Efficiency through photovoltaics and intelligent ventilation
The energy concept is rounded off by a generous photovoltaic system with crystalline silicon modules on the roof. Additional efficiency gains result from a ventilation concept that reuses supply air in laboratory areas several times, thereby reducing energy consumption.
As a result, the chosen solution enables complete disconnection from the gas and district heating networks.
Consulting with vision – technical clarity
The solution developed by MorgenGrün combines technical precision with sustainable energy efficiency to create a robust, future-proof system.
Close coordination with architects, the client and all parties involved has created a practical, resilient foundation that meets the high functional requirements of the new research building.
Environmental responsibility meets technical excellence
Energy optimisation takes equal account of thermal insulation, ventilation and supply technology. The result is a balanced system that maintains a balance between sustainability, functionality and cost-effectiveness while enabling complete decoupling from gas and district heating. In this way, it is possible to combine ambitious research technology with ecological responsibility – a result that meets the high standards of TRON gGmbH in every respect.
Images: © Nickl Architekten Deutschland GmbH