From challenge to circular transition

CHALLENGE

  • Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems account for ~50–70% of total building energy consumption
  • Retrofits can deliver up to 40% efficiency gains, improved air quality & less maintenance
  • End-of-use systems are typically replaced without structured take-back, resulting in lost reuse potential, materials and avoidable costs

PROJECT ACTIVITIES 

  • Establish circular take-back loops for HVAC products and components - starting with refurbishment of ebm-papst fans via Güntner
  • Implement end-to-end workflows to identify and locate units, remove/disassemble, take back, test and grade, refurbish or retrofit
  • Validate feasibility, processes and business models (e.g., Cooling-aaS as future scenario)

OUTCOME

  • Proof of concept delivered with first fan batches taken back, refurbished and resold
  • Transition from pilot to replicable solution initiated, with extension to additional product types and integration into standard operations
  • Foundations laid for further circularity use cases with additional partners (incl. industrial retrofit, data centers, retail applications)
     

CIRCULAR TRANSITION

  • Signaling through activities by strong industry players to rethink standard practices and create pull for others to follow
  • Foundations laid for holistic approach to circularity of control cabinets in 2026 with multi-actor group after bi/trilateral start with single products
Giving Industrial Coolinga Second Spin

Project Partners

Ebm pabst Logo
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