First Symposium on Energy and Building Systems Is a Resounding Success

A man is standing in a lecture hall in front of a screen displaying a presentation, at a lectern, speaking to a seated audience

About 150 representatives from companies, institutions, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and research institutes, as well as some 50 faculty members, students, and alumni, gathered at the Offenburg campus for the first Symposium on Energy and Building Systems to discuss current developments and future topics in the division.

The diverse program began with keynote presentations from both industry and University. The first session focused on “Energy Systems of the Future.” Topics included the energy transition and regional projects, biochar from pyrolysis, negative-emission technologies, and heavy-haul transport using batteries and fuel cells. This was followed by the session on “Buildings of the Future.” In addition to innovative concepts such as a climate-neutral and secure energy system for Germany by 2050, participants learned about sustainable technologies such as heat pumps for various building types—from single-family homes to factories—as well as the necessary relief for the power grid and battery storage. The session concluded with tips for planning and operating climate-neutral buildings. In addition to the technical presentations, there was ample time for personal discussions and networking.

The program also included tours of the labs at the Institute of Sustainable Energy Systems (INES) within the RIZ Energie - Research and Innovation Center of Energy Technology, which generated considerable interest. In addition, the symposium featured the presentation of the new Energie- und Gebäudetechnik degree program—developed from the Nachhaltige Energiesysteme program—which is scheduled to launch at Hochschule Offenburg in the winter semester of 2026/27. The program combines energy and building systems with sustainability and provides students with practical preparation for the demands of an industry that plays a central role in the energy transition.

The open and engaging atmosphere of the symposium led to lively conversations and in-depth technical discussions that continued well into the evening during the closing get-together. With this successful launch, Hochschule Offenburg has initiated a new event format that brings together academia, industry, and professional practice and strengthens professional exchange in the field of energy and building systems.