EPFL Fribourg campus grows
The EPFL campus in Fribourg is growing. Six new chairs focusing on the built environment, energy and climate will be established by 2030. The innovative Smart Living Lab (SLL) and the new Centre for Worldwide Sustainable Construction (CWSC) will position Fribourg as a leading research location for sustainable construction.
The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) and the Canton of Fribourg are intensifying their collaboration to develop the EPFL Fribourg campus into a leading center for sustainable construction. Six new chairs will gradually be established by 2030, bringing the campus to a total of ten chairs. This growth will strengthen research in the fields of the built environment, energy and climate and create new impetus for the Fribourg economy.
At the heart of this development is the CWSC, an international center active in Lausanne and Fribourg. The aim of the CWSC is to develop innovative solutions for sustainable construction through research, education and technology transfer. It thus contributes to the global shift towards environmentally friendly and resource-efficient construction methods.
Innovative Smart Living Lab as a center
The new chairs will be housed in the SLL’s pioneering experimental building. Construction of the SLL building will begin in the first quarter of 2025 on the Bluefactory site, with commissioning planned for 2027. The building sets new standards. It serves as a pioneering project for energy efficiency and resource consumption over the entire life cycle.
Thanks to its experimental features and digital twin technology, the SLL will become a multidisciplinary laboratory. Researchers from EPF Lausanne, HTA Fribourg and the University of Fribourg have state-of-the-art facilities at their disposal to test and further develop new technologies under real-life conditions.
Stimulus for the Fribourg economy
By strengthening the EPFL campus and the CWSC, the canton of Fribourg is making an important contribution to climate protection and sustainable development. At the same time, Fribourg’s economy, particularly the construction sector, benefits from this technology transfer. Companies gain access to innovative technologies and solutions that increase their competitiveness and open up new business areas.
A strong network for the future
The initiative builds on the existing collaboration between the EPF Lausanne, the School of Engineering and Architecture and the University of Fribourg. This partnership strengthens regional innovation and promotes the development of sustainable construction methods that meet both ecological and economic requirements.
The expansion of the EPFL Fribourg campus and the establishment of the CWSC will provide a strong impetus for research, innovation and the economy. Fribourg is thus becoming a central location for sustainable construction and a pioneering region in the fight against climate change.