MESTRI-CE Masterclass in Bolzano: Learning from CasaClima and the Autonomous Province of Bolzano

Date: 26.03.2025
By: MESTRI-CE
On March 19, 2025, the MESTRI-CE team gathered in Bolzano for an inspiring masterclass organized by CasaClima. The event was a great chance to learn firsthand how the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (PAB), an Italian associate partner in the MESTRI-CE project, is tackling the challenge of renovating its public buildings.

 

Building Renovation Plus: A Smart Public-Private Partnership

 

One of the standout moments of the masterclass was diving into the Building Renovation Plus project. This ambitious initiative uses Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to upgrade 25 public buildings, with an investment of over 56 million euros. What makes it even more interesting? The private partners are not just handling the renovations—they’ll also be responsible for maintaining these buildings for the next 20 years, in exchange for an annual fee from the PAB.

 

What does this mean in practice? Big benefits:

 

Lower energy consumption and fewer greenhouse gas emissions

 

Better indoor air quality

 

More comfortable working and learning environments with improved thermal, acoustic, and lighting conditions

 

This approach is a great example of how public buildings can be modernized in a financially sustainable way.

 

A Look into the Future at NOI Techpark

 

After the session, the group headed over to NOI Techpark, a 12-hectare former industrial site that has been transformed into a hub for innovation. Walking through the district, participants got an up-close look at the sustainability goals behind both the building renovations and the broader vision for the area’s development.

 

Some of the key takeaways from the visit:

 

Green technologies are being integrated into building designs

 

Sustainable urban development is at the heart of the project

 

The start-up incubator and green technology labs are fostering innovation

 

A Great Exchange of Ideas

 

The masterclass wasn’t just about learning—it was also about sharing ideas. The discussions sparked new thoughts on innovative financing models and sustainability strategies that could be adapted to different regions.

 

A huge thanks to CasaClima and the Autonomous Province of Bolzano for hosting such a valuable session. And of course, a big shout-out to all participants for making it a truly enriching experience!