The Digital Twin of Manastur: Leading the Way to Climate-Neutral Neighborhoods in Cluj-Napoca

The “Blueprint for Net-Zero Apartment Block Neighborhoods” pilot activities include the development of a Digital Twin—a virtual replica of a residential building in Mănăștur. This initiative aligns with European and national sustainability goals and showcases how innovative technology can support urban communities in transitioning to a greener future.

The Digital Twin was developed by Transilvania IT Cluster, through the expertise of Evozon, one of the consortium partners in this project. It serves as a model for demonstrating how data and technology can be harnessed to optimize energy use, improve resource management, and engage residents in achieving climate neutrality.

What Is a Digital Twin and What Is Its Mission?

A Digital Twin is a virtual representation of a physical structure that uses real-time data to mirror and analyze its behavior and performance. Equipped with advanced sensors and analytics, this tool enables continuous monitoring of key metrics like energy consumption, air quality, and temperature. 

The primary aim of this pilot is to explore how Digital Twin technology can drive the transition to climate-neutral residential buildings. A carefully selected building in the Mănăștur neighborhood will act as the pilot site, chosen for its representative structure, size, and resident demographics.

During the initial phase, essential parameters such as energy consumption, humidity, and air quality will be monitored. As the project progresses, additional data—like waste management and water usage—will be incorporated. Another critical objective is to foster collaboration with residents, whose engagement is essential for achieving sustainability goals.

How Does It Work?

The Digital Twin integrates multiple layers of technology to deliver actionable insights. Sensors installed throughout the building collect data on various parameters in real-time. This information is securely transferred to a cloud-based platform, where it is analyzed using advanced algorithms.

The results are presented through an intuitive web interface, enabling residents and stakeholders to visualize and interact with the data. By simulating potential changes and forecasting outcomes, the Digital Twin provides a powerful tool for optimizing energy use and reducing the building’s carbon footprint.

Benefits for the Residents of Cluj-Napoca

The pilot project offers significant benefits for the local community. 

• Reduced energy costs: Real-time monitoring and optimization can lower energy bills for residents.
• Improved comfort and air quality: Tracking and adjusting environmental factors ensure healthier living conditions.
• Active involvement in sustainability: Residents can play a direct role in reducing their environmental footprint by adapting their habits based on actionable insights.
• A model for the future: The pilot is a blueprint for implementing similar solutions in other communities, contributing to broader climate goals.

These initiatives show how technology can make our city smarter and more sustainable, improving daily life for residents while protecting the environment. We’re excited to continue working together to create a greener, healthier future for everyone.