Real Lab in Full Operation: Showcasing Successful Solar Thermal Energy Use at High-Altitude and Cold Climatic Region in Kyrgyzstan

The Institute of new Energy Systems (InES) at Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences (THI) is responsible for work package 5 (renewable energies) in the ÖkoFlussPlan project. The main objective of this work package is to find feasible solutions for the integration of renewable energies in rural Kyrgyzstan. In addition to the planned scope of the ÖkoFlussPlan project, the of a community house, called "Real Lab", was constructed to demonstrate the use of sustainable energy solutions.

The inauguration ceremony of the Real Lab took place at mid-January of 2023 with the final conference of the project ÖkoFlussPlan. The opening ceremony was honoured by the presence of project partners, local self-governance officials, and local partners. The facility represents a pioneering step towards finding feasible solutions for integrating renewable energies into high-altitude rural communities in Kyrgyzstan.

The heating system of the Ak-Tal community centre consists of two generation plants. A solid fuel stove and a solar thermal system generate heat that can be temporarily stored in the storage tank. When needed, heat can then be distributed to the building via the radiators with the help of an intelligent control system.

Real Lab was handed over to the Ak-Tal community for operational use at the community level. Additionally, it was available to Naryn State University for scientific use on the academic level, fostering research and innovation in the field of renewable energy.

During the opening ceremony, energy experts from Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt conducted workshops on sustainable insulation and provided training on the newly installed heating system within the Real Lab. This valuable knowledge transfer is expected to empower the local community with the skills and expertise needed to manage and maintain the facility efficiently.

The Real Lab stands as an example of sustainable energy solutions, not only showcasing the practicality of renewable energy integration in high-altitude rural regions but also serving as an educational hub for future generations of researchers. It symbolizes the commitment of the ÖkoFlussPlan project and its partners to drive positive change and promote environmental sustainability in Kyrgyzstan.

The Real Lab is in operation since the opening and demonstrate the successful use of solar thermal energy at high-altitude region. In addition, the Real Lab is open for all so neighbouring communities can visit the house and learn more about sustainable insulation use and sustainable heat supply use. Hence, The Real Lab's success story is not only limited to the Ak-Tal community but also extends its reach to neighbouring areas, inspiring them to explore and implement sustainable energy solutions tailored to their unique environmental conditions. The ÖkoFlussPlan project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and started in 2019. ÖkoFlussPlan is part of the BMBF initiative Client II.