As part of the Tages-Anzeiger section “FOKUS Immobilien”, published on November 29, 2025, viboo released a report on digitalization and automation as key drivers of sustainable building renovation.

Using the viboo approach as an example, the report shows how property owners can already leverage predictive control to take a fast, cost-efficient and sustainable step toward ESG and decarbonization goals.

‍Click here for the full issue (German; viboo on page 4).

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Digitalization and automation as the key to sustainable renovation

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Rising energy prices, stricter regulations and ESG requirements are presenting the real estate sector with new challenges. At the same time, digitalization and building automation offer a direct lever to operate existing buildings efficiently and future-proof them.

Many commercially used properties consume more energy today than is necessary for comfort and usage. Often, reliable information about building operation—such as room utilization or energy losses—is lacking. Yet owners are under pressure to reduce consumption and CO₂ emissions without compromising economic viability or comfort.

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Building automation as the foundation

Digital systems create transparency and form the basis for targeted and economically sound building optimization. Modern building automation connects sensors, actuators and communication systems and controls key functions such as heating, ventilation or cooling. These systems continuously respond to usage, temperature or occupancy and ensure that energy is only used where it is needed. Open interfaces make it possible to integrate existing technology and expand it flexibly.

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Quick-win with immediate impact

Compared to structural interventions, implementation can be completed within a few hours and pays off on average after three years. Numerous studies describe it as one of the most effective first steps on the renovation path—a true “low-hanging fruit.” Automated control reduces energy losses without major interventions and continuously adapts the building to actual conditions.

The benefits are especially evident in existing buildings with varying uses and building sections. The systems adapt flexibly and provide continuous operational data. This transparency helps owners set priorities. Consumption data reveals where the greatest impact can be achieved and supports ESG compliance as well as the long-term economic operation of a portfolio.

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Predictive control boosts efficiency

The greatest savings potential lies in heating energy. Predictive control is particularly effective. It uses AI to learn physical models from building and weather data. Using these models, weather forecasts and occupancy data, heating demand can be optimized for each room in advance. Rooms are only heated when required—not earlier. This reduces energy consumption by an average of 27%.

ETH and EMPA spin-off viboo applies exactly this approach. The predictive room-level control learns a building’s behavior within 1–2 weeks and continuously optimizes its operation. The collected data also supports the prioritization of further renovation measures and can be analyzed via the platform. Predictive control thus becomes a powerful tool for operating existing buildings more efficiently, comfortably and in a more climate-friendly way.

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Find out in latest white paper, why building automation is one of the most effective first measures in the renovation path — and how owners use it to quickly save energy and meet ESG goals. Or  contact us without obligation.

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