The oPEN Living Lab Tartu invited students to take part in a new idea competition focused on sustainable energy use in large apartment building areas. The goal was to inspire innovative public space installations that support energy production, storage, or reduced consumption—helping to build a Positive Energy Neighborhood (PEN) in Tartu. Students were encouraged to submit creative concepts—ranging from written descriptions to rough sketches—for installations that are not only energy-conscious but also visually enhance urban space. Ideas must be suited for big apartment building neighborhoods and be realistically feasible.
Submissions were due by 20 April 2025. Even though this is a very busy time for students with end-of-year exams fast approaching, the team received two strong applications with innovative PEN ideas. The applications will be evaluated by experts from TalTech, the University of Tartu, the City of Tartu, Tartu Regional Energy Agency, and the Institute of Baltic Studies. While both applications will receive the prizes, the winning idea may be implemented in collaboration with the project team and local community.
