July 7, 2026

Behind DigiFab: CERTH Driving Smart Building Intelligence

The Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) is one of the leading research institutions in Greece and Europe, with extensive expertise in energy technologies, smart buildings, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital infrastructures. By combining advanced applied research with industrial innovation, CERTH develops practical solutions that improve building performance while addressing today's environmental and societal challenges.

Making existing buildings smarter with AI

Within DigiFab, CERTH plays a central role in developing and validating innovative solutions that enable buildings to become smarter, healthier, and more energy efficient.

One of its main contributions is the Smart Energy and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Management Toolkit, an AI-driven platform that integrates seamlessly with existing building automation systems. Using predictive control and adaptive ventilation strategies, the toolkit continuously optimises heating, cooling, and ventilation to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high levels of indoor comfort and air quality.

CERTH also contributes to the development of DigiFab’s plug-and-play photovoltaic façade solution, supporting its digital integration through QR-enabled traceability. Each building component is assigned a unique digital identifier, giving installers instant access to interactive installation manuals. This approach simplifies installation, reduces errors, shortens construction time, and lowers renovation costs.

The Greek Pilot: transforming a 1970s office building

CERTH leads the Greek demonstration site at the Salvano Office Building in Thermi, Thessaloniki.

Built in 1977, the 1,271 m² office building is currently undergoing a deep energy renovation aimed at upgrading its energy performance from Energy Class H to A+.

The pilot showcases how digital technologies, smart automation, and renewable energy solutions can transform existing office buildings while minimising disruption during renovation.

The intervention combines several complementary innovations:

creation of a 3D digital model through laser scanning, BIM and Digital Twin technologies;
installation of smart wireless automation systems based on Z-Wave devices;
continuous monitoring of energy consumption and indoor environmental quality;
deployment of the Smart Energy and IEQ Management Toolkit;
future integration of a plug-and-play photovoltaic façade connected to the building’s smart energy management platform.

By testing these technologies under real operating conditions, the building becomes a living laboratory where researchers can evaluate improvements in energy efficiency, indoor comfort and system performance while actively involving occupants throughout the renovation process.

A scalable model for the Greek building stock

Greece has a large stock of ageing, energy-inefficient buildings that require practical and cost-effective renovation solutions.

The Greek pilot demonstrates that even office buildings constructed nearly fifty years ago can be transformed into smart, efficient, and sustainable infrastructures through the integration of AI, digital monitoring, smart automation, and renewable energy technologies.

The solutions developed within DigiFab provide tangible benefits for public authorities striving to achieve climate and energy targets, while creating new opportunities for SMEs involved in building renovation and facility management through scalable and economically viable solutions.

“Through DigiFab, CERTH demonstrates that innovation does not equate to added complexity. By integrating artificial intelligence and digital tools into building energy management and indoor air quality systems, legacy buildings can be upgraded into smart, efficient, and human-centered infrastructures. This approach provides a scalable and replicable pathway that supports European climate policies, benefits public authorities, and creates new opportunities in the renovation market.”