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In order to investigate the influence of a complementary south-oriented sun-space on the heat demand of a residential building a comprehensive study based on several calculations and measurements was performed. In comparing and interpreting the findings, special attention was paid to variations in the energy balance due to varied (combinations of) boundary conditions. Further, the energetic efficiency of a sunspace was compared to the performance of 2 devices designed for improved thermal insulation of a south facade, namely a triple-glazed window system and a double-glazed one with roller blinds. Lastly, a cost-benefit analysis was conducted for all systems under survey.

About 15 % of the primary energy consumed in the Fed. Rep. of Germany account for heating private households. In this respect, there are still many possibilities to cut down on energy consumption, both in renovating old buildings and in raising new ones. In the long run, the heating energy demand for dwellings in the Fed. Rep. of Germany could be reduced to less than a third of today's consumption by consequently applying all of the advanced building concepts and technologies presently available, which to date have only been applied with hesitation. By funding the present pilot project, the German Federal Ministry for Research and Technology intends to give an actual demonstration of the practical implementation.