The Building Modernisation Act (GModG) extends the requirement for building automation and control to further non-residential buildings. From 2030, it will also apply to properties whose heating, air-conditioning or ventilation systems have a rated output of more than 70 kilowatts (kW). Previously, the threshold was 290 kW. Affected non-residential buildings, such as offices, logistics centres, hotels or shopping centres, must be fitted with the relevant technology by 31 December 2029. aedifion’s building automation and control solutions meet these legal requirements in accordance with Section 56(1) to (3) of the GModG. This has been confirmed by TÜV Rheinland, which has certified the Cologne-based company’s solutions accordingly.
The TÜV test covers key building automation functions
During the testing process, TÜV Rheinland assessed the functions for monitoring, logging and analysing energy consumption, as well as the options for adjusting it. Further test criteria included the ability to monitor indoor climate quality, the presence of a freely configurable interface, the provision of energy efficiency target values, the detection of efficiency losses, and the provision of information on potential improvements. “The GModG extends these requirements to a significantly larger number of non-residential buildings,” says Dr Johannes Fütterer, CEO of aedifion. “The certification confirms that the tested aedifion solutions meet the requirements set out in Section 56(1), (2) and (3). This provides owners and operators with independently verified proof of the conformity of the technology used, which they can also present to banks, auditors or investors.”
Integration without refurbishment in new and existing buildings
Depending on the building and its technical specifications, aedifion solutions can be integrated into the existing building systems on a manufacturer-independent basis, either as a plug-and-play solution or via a minimally invasive digital upgrade. Integration is possible whilst the building remains in operation and does not require any structural refurbishment. The certified software package has a modular design. It comprises all the necessary components for both existing buildings and new builds in terms of data availability, analysis and consumption optimisation. For new builds that meet the technical requirements, the solution also achieves automation level B, as prescribed by DIN/TS 18599-11: 2025-10, for systems over 290 kW, and level C for systems over 70 kW. Where required, a comprehensive system comprising local building automation and a cloud platform is implemented in collaboration with the building automation contractor to achieve the required level of automation. “With this certification, we offer owners and operators a solution tailored to the individual requirements of their properties,” explains Fütterer. “In this way, we lay the foundations for legally compliant and cost-effective system operation not only in new builds but also in smaller or only partially digitised existing buildings.”
Operational data for reporting and continuous optimisation
As well as meeting legal requirements, the digital collection and analysis of operational data provides transparency regarding the energy consumption and efficiency of technical systems. This makes it easier, for example, to plan and document efficiency measures and to fulfil ESG reporting obligations. At the same time, the analytical data obtained serves as a basis for further optimisation measures. In existing buildings, an autonomous control system can, for example, manage operations proactively. This active control unlocks additional potential for savings, as the integration of weather forecasts, user behaviour and electricity prices enables systems to be controlled even more efficiently. “The legal requirements provide a clear framework. Those who meet them with aedifion lay the foundations for everything that follows. For owners and operators, it then comes down to using the operational data gathered to make concrete decisions and to ensure that building operations are transparent and sustainable in the long term,” summarises Fütterer.
