Standardisation activities in ENSNARE are aimed at addressing the complexities and challenges associated with the adoption of new technological solutions in construction. ENSNARE utilises standardisation as a tool to support and flank the transfer of innovative technologies from the research and development phase to the process of scaling-up and the real-world business infrastructures. 

As a part of an intensive and long co creation workshop with stakeholders within and outside of the ENSNARE project, the following standardisation priority areas have been defined to support digitally driven end-to-end solutions for renovation with modular, prefabricated components: 

1. Design and Installation Guidelines: The specification should provide detailed guidelines for the design and installation of modular facades, including structural considerations, integration of energy systems, and interconnection of modules.
2. Performance Standards: It should establish performance criteria for energy efficiency, durability, and safety, including fireproofing capabilities and structural integrity. The focus should be on ensuring that the facades not only meet aesthetic and functional requirements but also contribute significantly to the building’s energy performance. 
3. Quality Assurance and Maintenance: Outline quality assurance processes and maintenance protocols to ensure long-term performance and safety. This includes the use of reliable components and systems, as well as guidelines for periodic inspections and maintenance.
4. Data and Digital Integration: The specification should cover aspects of data management and digital integration, including the use of digital twins for monitoring and managing building performance. This is crucial for creating a connected and efficient building infrastructure.
5. Modular Facades with Integrated Renewable Energy Solutions: facade systems that integrate renewable energy technologies, such as photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar thermal systems, and hybrid solutions. This aligns with ENSNARE’s goal of promoting nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEB) through the retrofitting of existing structures.

Furthermore, ENSNARE focuses on engaging with identified existing standardisation groups in the scope of this standardisation priorities. This involves collaboration with established bodies to understand the current landscape and identify opportunities for incorporating ENSNARE’s unique requirements. The project will take a proactive approach by injecting ENSNARE’s specific needs and processes into these existing standards groups. 

Simultaneously, the development of a formalised overarching document (such as a DIN SPEC) will be undertaken. This document will serve as a comprehensive reference, detailing the standards, methodologies, and best practices identified and developed throughout the project. It will also integrate and connect existing standards, incorporating ENSNARE’s knowledge and results in parallel.

Standardisation activities in ENSNARE are led mainly by OTH Regensburg’s laboratory for automation and robotics in construction (Merve Karamara, Thomas Linner, Building Lab). Promoting young engineering talents like Merve Karamara is a vital aspect of ENSNARE’s standardisation efforts. By engaging young professionals, the project not only advances its immediate technological goals but also invests in the future of the construction industry. These emerging engineers bring fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to integrating innovative solutions into existing standards, ensuring long-term sustainability.

These activities are allocated within WP2 (Building data acquisition modules led by Kepa Iturralde), and involve the whole consortium as well as national and international stakeholders outside of the consortium in a co-creation process. DIN (German standardisation body) as key collaborator, and also UNI (Italia standardisation body), and UNE (Spanish standardisation body) support ENSNARE’s standardisation activities.