Historic Vienna building becomes a climate-friendly energy community

Through innovative energy concepts and strong community commitment, Atmove and Spirit Design successfully phase out gas—marking an important step toward decarbonization.

The companies Atmove and Spirit Design are located in a multi-party building from 1894 in Vienna. In line with our ESG goals, decarbonizing the building’s energy supply became a central objective for all owners and residents.

Already in 2022, I could start the planning for alternative energy concepts together with the co-owners, followed by the foundation of an energy community in 2023. The project was carefully planned technically and economically during 2024 and – supported by generous funding from the City of Vienna (Wohnfonds Wien) and the Republic of Austria (KPC ) – successfully implemented in 2025.

By replacing and refurbishing windows and insulating the top floor ceiling, the heating demand was reduced by approximately 28%.


Today, heating, hot water, and part of the electricity demand are supplied through the energy community using:
• 5 heat pumps with a total capacity of 70 kW
• Solar thermal energy with 8 kWp and two 1,000-liter buffer storage tanks
• A 10 kWp photovoltaic system
• A 15 kWh battery storage system

The phase-out of gas for heat generation results in savings of 18 tons of CO₂ per year, powered entirely by renewable electricity.

In May 2026, the first heating season was successfully completed, confirming that the goals of the energy community were achieved:
✔ Affordable, clean, regional, and community-based energy generation
✔ Maximum possible self-consumption tailored to residents’ needs
✔ Active participation in the energy transition
✔ Strengthening awareness and identification among residents
✔ A measurable contribution to decarbonization by all members

We are especially honored that the project was selected by Urban Innovation Vienna as one of the “100 Projects Phasing Out Gas”:
https://lnkd.in/dEbvnPem

This initiative is part of the Vienna Heat Plan 2040, demonstrating how the city can successfully transition away from oil and gas heating systems.
A great example of how historical buildings and innovative energy concepts can work together to create a sustainable future. 🌱

Since we enjoy sharing our experiences, we’ve put together a short project brochure for anyone interested. Please feel free to contact us for advice if you’re considering renovating your building or starting an energy community.


News

Historic Vienna building becomes a climate-friendly energy community

Through innovative energy concepts and strong community commitment, Atmove and Spirit Design successfully phase out gas—marking an important step toward decarbonization.
Sustainnovation graphic

Sustainnovation

Spirit Design, with the support of FFG, is developing a digitally supported and integrated consulting process with its partner akaryon - the developers of the ESG Cockpit.
Wagon inclined lift Petrin 3D Rendering

We were only the second at Prague Castle Hill

Spirit Design was invited by the Municipality of Prague to submit a new design concept for the inclined lift up Pétrin next to Prague Castle.
Helbling sales brochure

Helbling – Innovating a sustainable future

Spirit Design has had the privilege of co-developing and designing a number of brochures for Helbling over the past 2 years.

Awards

Spiritdesign Auszeichnungen
Spiritdesign Auszeichnungen

Contact

Spirit Design – Innovation and Brand GmbH
Wattmanngasse 8
1130 Vienna | Austria
+43 664 1800099
spirit@spiritdesign.com