9.2.2026
Presentation by Ritter Schumacher Architects and Zero Edition
On Monday, February 9, 2026, Richard Wallner (simulation expert at Zero Edition) and Michele Lenzi (project manager at Ritter Schumacher) spoke at a lunch talk in Chur about their collaboration and the efficiency gains in the planning process achieved through early-stage building simulation.
The architectural firm Ritter Schumacher AG (Chur, Vaduz, Zurich) is a cooperation partner of Zero Edition and has all projects analyzed using building simulation at an early stage (news from March 10, 2025) in order to obtain precise planning data and reduce building services costs..
15.12.2025
Annual monitoring commissioned by the Office of Energy of Graubünden
In early December, the first year of the three-year monitoring period for the Calunastrasse project in Chur (news from January 20, 2025) was successfully completed.
The monitoring is being carried out in cooperation with the Office of Energy of the Canton of Graubünden. The annual monitoring shows very positive results for the heating system with heat pumps for energy generation and the silent absorber registers installed on the roof for energy extraction, and confirms the accuracy of the previously conducted building simulation.
Simulated COP value: 3.88
Actual COP value: 4.32 (mild winter 2024/25)
4.11.2025
How Zero Edition Develops Solutions for the Heat Transition Beyond District Heating.
Phasing out fossil-based heating systems is a key objective of energy policy in European cities. The expansion of district heating networks plays an important role in this process, as they enable efficient and long-term stable heat supply. At the same time, however, a structural limitation becomes apparent in all cities: district heating cannot be expanded everywhere.
Topographical conditions, existing infrastructure, protected areas, historic urban structures, or economic constraints mean that certain districts cannot be connected to district heating networks. These areas are crucial for achieving municipal climate targets, as they often account for a significant share of overall heating demand.
Zero Edition OÜ uses dynamic building simulations with IDA ICE to systematically analyze such areas. Due to high modeling and calculation speeds, not only individual buildings but entire districts and contiguous urban areas can be assessed. In Estonia, district and building analyses have already been conducted for several cities, each taking local building typologies into account. A total of 136 cluster simulations have already been created.
On this basis, suitable alternatives for areas without district heating connections can be identified. These include electrically driven heat pump systems, geothermal solutions, decentralized environmental energy systems, as well as hybrid and local low-temperature networks. The results enable an integrated perspective: district heating where it is technically and economically viable, and decentralized solutions where network limits are reached.
In this way, Zero Edition provides a reliable decision-making basis for planning the heat transition at district and city level.
9.10.2025
How Zero Edition Supports Heating System Replacement in the European Building Stock Using IDA ICE
Zero Edition OÜ combines the use of IDA ICE for dynamic building simulations with many years of experience in the efficient modeling of large building portfolios. This combination makes it possible to conduct simulations not only with high precision but also within short timeframes and in large quantities. As a result, new approaches emerge for evaluating heating systems in the European residential building stock.
In many European countries, multi-story residential buildings with highly repetitive typologies were constructed in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Within each country, these buildings often share similar geometry, construction methods, and floor plan types, while typologies differ significantly between countries. This structure allows for a systematic analysis of entire building classes.
Zero Edition has modeled around 500 buildings from a uniform construction period in Estonia using IDA ICE. Thanks to high modeling and calculation speeds, large building stocks can now be analyzed not only individually but also typologically and comparatively. This creates a consistent data basis for assessing which heating systems are suitable for specific building types and where technical or economic limits exist.
These findings are central to replacing fossil-based heating systems with heat pumps, district heating, or hybrid solutions. Buildings from the 1970s to 1990s account for a significant share of today’s heating demand. A sound and scalable analysis of their energy performance is therefore a prerequisite for efficient and realistic heating system replacement across the European building stock.
11.9.2025
Why Zero Edition OÜ Delivers Particularly Fast Dynamic Building Simulations
Zero Edition OÜ in Võru has been working exclusively with IDA ICE for dynamic building simulations for many years. The software is known for its high accuracy, but its full performance potential can only be realized through targeted and experienced application. This is precisely where Zero Edition OÜ’s focus lies.
Through several years of exclusive work with IDA ICE, thousands of completed simulations, and extensive experience in developing three-dimensional building models, Zero Edition OÜ knows exactly which elements are relevant for each project. From the outset, models are structured to represent only the decisive parameters. Unnecessary data points and overly complex modeling are deliberately avoided.
This targeted modeling approach significantly reduces calculation times. Simulations can be carried out and evaluated much more quickly without compromising the validity of the results. Speed is not achieved through simplification, but through experience and precision in the modeling process.
For clients, this means short turnaround times, rapid decision-making foundations, and efficient integration of simulation into the planning process. Zero Edition OÜ combines deep technical expertise with measurable time savings in project execution.
22.8.25
High-Level Visit: Minister of Infrastructure Kuldar Leis and Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Climate Ivo Jaanisoo visited ZeroEdition.
We had the honour of hosting the Minister of Infrastructure and the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Climate to present our systematic approach to renewing Estonia’s heating solutions.
We introduced ZeroEdition Estonia’s rollout initiative, which leverages national public data to create targeted proposals for apartment buildings, helping modernise the country’s building stock. We outlined our methodology, modelling process, and scaling capability — allowing us to deliver assessments for over 400 projects within just one month. These evaluations focus on buildings that require improved heating systems, considering future climate conditions and aiming to enhance living quality.
In addition, our guests were presented with an overview of our advanced energy efficiency solutions for industrial buildings. This included a closer look at Werrocube — our noise-free, future-proof heat exchanger, manufactured at our Estonian factory Werroform.
We also highlighted ongoing development work at our joint ventures of SCT System Components Trading Estonia and Werroform, our areas of expertise, the expanding service and product portfolio, and our commitment to sustainable, environmentally conscious work.
20.8.2025
Waiver of Mandatory District Heating Connection
For a commercial building in Chur with a usable floor area of 9,000 m², Zero Edition carried out a dynamic building simulation and calculated the design of the planned heating system using heat pumps and air absorbers for energy generation.
Based on this analysis, the building owner was able to demonstrate that the building can be operated without district heating. As a result, it was possible to waive the district heating connection required by the City of Chur and maintain energy independence.
14.7.2025
Energy Cubes
On July 14th, a groundbreaking patent was filed with the European Patent Office, with Zero Edition playing a key role as the evaluation institute during the development phase. The patent, with application number EP25189347.5, concerns an air absorber (referred to as the Energy Cube) that operates without any moving mechanical parts. Thermal convection creates air movement within the cube without the need for a fan. This developed energy generation solution is characterized by very low maintenance requirements, operates silently, and does not freeze in winter, unlike the split systems of air heat pumps.
In close collaboration with the development team, Zero Edition conducted the energy assessment of this energy generation system. The previously simulated results were compared over an extended period with the physically measured data.
13.6.2025
Distinguished visitors at Zero Edition Estonia in Vöru.
On Friday, 13 June 2025, the Minister of Economy and Industry of the Republic of Estonia, Erkki Keldo, visited the Zero Edition office in Vöru together with a delegation of members of parliament.
Jon Ritter presented the company's philosophy and current projects to the guests. He then highlighted the essential contribution of dynamic simulation to solving the problem of replacing heating systems in a large number of buildings. The ‘Werrocubes’ (air absorbers) co-developed by Zero Edition Switzerland represent an important alternative for Estonia to move away from old oil, gas or wood heating systems. This led to a very lively discussion and met with great interest.
Jon Ritter praised the Vöru location and the resources available there in terms of well-trained people who want to delve deeper into the topic of building simulation.
7.6.2025
Zero Edition and Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU).
Zero Edition is evaluating a new energy system variant for the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU). As Zero Edition, our core mission is to scientifically research and independently assess the diverse possibilities for the energy optimization of buildings.
We are pleased to announce that, in cooperation with one of our partners, the planning office RBT Engineering GmbH from Flums, a new heating system has been included in the official variant comparison tool of HSLU.
Within the scope of this collaboration, Zero Edition was able to act as the evaluating authority and positively assess this new, innovative variant for the comparison tool.
The system in question is a heat pump-based solution combined with an air absorber. What makes it special: the air absorber operates without mechanical parts and thus—unlike outdoor split units of conventional air-source heat pumps—produces no noise emissions.
This is a significant advantage, as it allows the heating system to be used even in densely populated areas.
25.5.2025
Patent application for ceiling construction
On May 22, a new patent was filed with the European Patent Office. Zero Edition conducted key evaluations during the development phase. The patent, with the number EP25178278.5, concerns a concrete-wood composite ceiling that does not require reinforcement steel. Additionally, it is designed to be used as a ceiling heating system (building component activation). This makes it particularly attractive in terms of achieving the climate goals for 2050. For this prefabricated ceiling construction, Zero Edition previously conducted all necessary energy simulations and assessed the efficiency of the building component activation.
28.3.2025
ZeroEdition conducted its first successful 3D modeling course.
ZeroEdition 3D modelling course at Ewers was completed by 13 students. All the registrants passed the course and have learned the basics structure of the IDA ICE software and can independently perform 3D modeling with that software using 2D planning data.
The course atmosphere and feedback was extremely positive and all the participants were and are very motivated. ZeroEdition is very happy to support their interest and meet the market demand as Estonia needs more 3D modellers due to the requirement of exchanging the current energy systems into a modern ones.
18.3.2025
Zero Edition is a new member of the Association for Building Simulation.
Since March 2025, Zero Edition has been an official member of the Swiss Association for Building Simulation. The association brings together experts from planning, research, education and technology who are involved in dynamic building simulation – as a tool for better planning, informed decision-making and more sustainable construction practices.
The association is committed to strengthening the quality, relevance, and usage scope of simulations in the construction industry. Simulations are increasingly being used in Switzerland and offer the possibility of creating energy-efficient and low-emission buildings. Simulations also reduce investment and operating costs through optimized design of construction and technology.
"We are an interdisciplinary network for everyone interested in or using building simulation. Our members work in various fields of construction, research and education," the association's website states.
Zero Edition brings sound practical experience to the network and, together with the other members, is committed to deepening knowledge about building simulation, promoting professional exchange and further establishing the method in planning practice.
11.3.2025
Building Future Now is the exclusive partner of Zero Edition in Austria
Zero Edition specializes in the evaluation of buildings based on dynamic building simulations and on the preparation of energy and structural assessments. A partnership with Building Future Now has been established to develop the Austrian market.
Building Future Now is the Austrian contact for HVAC planners, architects, developers, and installation companies. The goal of the collaboration is to further establish the use of dynamic simulation methods in the Austrian market.
Building Future Now is managed by Erich Habesohn and Franz Vogl, who have many years of experience in real estate industry, building technology, and energy planning.
Further information is available at: www.building-future-now.com
4.3.2025
ZERO EDITION ESTONIA kicks off with the first lecture of its intensive adult training course at the Võru County Education and Technology Center EWERS with 14 participants.
Zero Edition is extremely happy to take the knowledge of 3D modelling and building simulations to this part of Estonia and Europe. We will guide the students through this course and explain future energy efficiency education options in Estonia for the ones excited to continue in this field and become a part of making this world a more sustainable place to live in with the help of simulation programs that allow us to assess exact energy needs of specific locations and at requirements for buildings in those locations.
This 3D modelling course offers a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the IDA ICE (Indoor Climate and Energy) software. The course will take place March 4 - 25, Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the EWERS computer lab. The training will be conducted by young and inspiring Richard Wallner who has been using the program for years at an expert level.
18.2.2025
Austrian standards confirm:
Dynamic building simulations help to save costs
An analysis by Franz Vogl (infinite anergy solutions) shows that, according to Austrian standards, dynamic building simulations are expressly permitted for both: the preparation of energy certificates and the design of heating and cooling systems.
OIB Guideline 6 and ÖN B 8110-6 classify dynamic methods as the most accurate calculation method. They thus provide a reliable basis for energy assessments and technical designs.
The complete analysis is available for download here:
5.2.2025
ZeroEdition and EWERS create an opportunity to learn innovative energy simulation software
On February 5, Võrumaa Education and Technology Center and Zeroedition OÜ signed a cooperation agreement, based on which the school will support the company in launching a service direction for building energy use simulations in Võru. In March, EWERS will open adult training to help Zeroedition find and prepare employees with the necessary competence.
The IDA ICE (Indoor Climate and Energy) basic training conducted in cooperation focuses on teaching the skills necessary to create simulations of the indoor climate and energy use of buildings. The training offers a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the IDA ICE software, which enables building-based research of indoor climate phenomena and energy use.
The training will take place from March 4 to 25, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM in the computer classroom of the EWERS Tehnomaja.
The curriculum is available at:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XORbmhyjC24uCCcYgQ6_7qzX3KmNDlza/view
3.2.2025
The Minister of Infrastructure and the Mayor of Võru got acquainted with the activities of Zero Edition OÜ
On February 3, the Minister of Infrastructure Vladimir Svet, together with the Mayor of Võru Kalvi Kõva and Member of Parliament Anti Allas, visited the Jaama 32 companies. First, they went to the Werroform production workshop to be introduced to the renewed product range and the newly manufactured and unique energy cube, which is planned to be brought to the market more widely through SCT to spread energy saving. The visit ended at the ZeroEdition office, where the management described our main goals and at the same time used the opportunity to explain to the minister the limitations of solving the Estonian energy topics and the closed system of issuing energy certificates. The symbiotic ideology of all our companies impressed all members of the delegation.
Same day ZeroEdition Estonian office started work with two new employees. The future goal is to have around 25 persons working with building simulations by 2026.
21.1.2025
Knowledge and practice hand in hand: TalTech visit
Taltech bachelor's and master's students, together with their professors, visited ZeroEdition and Werroform on their own initiative on 21.01.25. To start off, Jon Ritter from Swiss Ritter&Schumacher architect bureau introduced the human-oriented approach to environmentally and material-conscious residential construction, so that the guests could understand our new and transparent energy-efficient planning and the resulting choice of materials for the most cost-effective construction. The presentation was followed by the tour of the factory, where the CEO of Werroform, Bernhard Wallner, introduced the 25 guests to Smart products and the principles of their manufacturing, as well as continuous development activities for the best use of those elements and materials. The students were excited to see that at the same time, 10 elements were being manufactured in the factory, to be taken for testing to TalTech construction laboratory by end of January. The cooperation with TalTech is highly visible and two-sided in every sense. This is how we can put knowledge into practice and develop as a society.
31.1.2025
ZeroEdition relies on dynamic building simulation for a more realistic determination of heating demand
The Austrian OIB Guideline 6 requires developers to submit an energy performance certificate. However, according to the official statement, the energy indicators provided in this certificate are for information purposes only. The reason lies in the standardized input parameters, which often deviate significantly from actual usage and building-specific factors. Differences in location within a building, varying usage profiles, or geometric particularities frequently result in a real heating demand that is considerably lower than the calculated values.
This is precisely where ZeroEdition comes in. Using the professional building simulation software IDA ICE, the company performs a dynamic simulation that goes far beyond standardized calculations. Real climate models, the building’s location, exact geometry, user behavior, and technical systems – including mechanical ventilation with heat recovery – are taken into account. The result is a significantly more accurate heating demand figure, which is additionally stated in the energy performance certificate as HWBsim.
It is important to note that HWBsim does not replace the legally required calculation method; rather, it complements it. Developers and property owners thus receive a valuable basis for decision-making when designing their heating systems according to the actual required demand. As this real demand is typically 20 to 30 percent lower than the calculated heating demand, substantial savings in heating system investment costs are often achieved.
ZeroEdition charges a professional service fee for the simulation; however, in many cases this fee is more than offset by the reduced installation costs. Precise planning therefore not only leads to a more efficient heating system, but also provides a clear financial advantage for property owners.
20.1.2025
Cantonal Office for Energy, Graubünden (Switzerland) confirms funding for heating replacement with air absorber
On 20 January 2025, a meeting took place between Jon Ritter, representative of Zero Edition, and Mr. Casutt from the Office for Energy of the Canton of Graubünden. The topic was the heating replacement carried out in November 2024 in the Calunastrasse project in Chur.
The property owners wanted to switch from fossil gas to a heating system using renewable energies. A solution with geothermal probes was out of the question for reasons of space, and an air source heat pump was not possible due to noise pollution. The heating planner Claudio Secomandi suggested as an alternative the replacement of the heating system using air absorbers and a brine heat pump.
Zero Edition used a building simulation (Curia dossier) to calculate and design the air absorber and heat pump. The system went into operation on 20 November 2024. Using a monitoring dossier, Zero Edition presented the current operating figures for the heating system and was able to prove that the simulated values are very close to the actual measured values. Mr Casutt from the Office for Energy was pleased with the high efficiency of the energy generation and the above-average COP value of the heat pump in the winter months of December and January.
As a result, the Office for Energy of the Canton of Graubünden confirmed the payment of the promised subsidies for the air absorber heating replacement.
19.1.2025
Logic: DESIGN - CONSTRUCTION - ENERGY
is replaced by new logic
ENERGY - CONSTRUCTION - DESIGN
Jon Ritter, the shareholder of ZeroEdition is implementing this necessary paradigm shift in the architecture industry.
Once the questions regarding energy and structural requirements have been clarified at the outset, the construction for the project can be determined precisely and it forms the basis for design. All this gives architects a range of options at an early stage, with what they can freely operate, making the planning process more efficient and thus avoiding unnecessary construction costs.
Zero Edition uses dynamic building simulations to make precise statements about component dimensions and building services requirements prior to planning.
8.11.2024
Internship Day was held at the Võrumaa Education and Technology Center EWERS.
ZeroEdition is an institute and supports education in the field of building simulations, hence we approached Võrumaa Education and Technology Center EWERS to get connected with the education system of Estonia.
On November 8, the first Internship Day was held at Ewers. Students had the opportunity to get acquainted with various companies and their internship options in order to consider their future practice and job opportunities. The main participants were students of the vocational secondary education. ZeroEdition presence proved to be very popular and some students were also interested in doing an internship in the spring of 2025.
20.10.2024
Why Zero Edition OÜ Relies on IDA ICE
Zero Edition OÜ has deliberately chosen IDA ICE (Indoor Climate and Energy) as its tool for dynamic building simulations. The software enables a highly precise representation of buildings, technical systems, and control strategies. The underlying physical models are based on current scientific research and have demonstrated a high level of agreement between simulation results and measured data in various studies.
This quality is also reflected in its broad academic use: numerous renowned European universities such as ETH Zurich, TU Vienna, and many others employ IDA ICE in research and teaching. In addition, the program is established in many European countries as a recognized verification and planning tool, as it can be adapted to national standards, climate data, and regulatory requirements.
For Zero Edition OÜ, IDA ICE therefore provides the appropriate foundation for delivering reliable and realistic simulations. Specializing in this tool makes it possible to support planning processes on a sound technical basis and to provide precise decision-making foundations for energy-efficient buildings.
