The Group of Construction Research and Innovation (GRIC) is a research group of the Department of Project and Construction Engineering, composed of a team of professors and researchers of the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC). GRIC is recognized as a consolidated research group by the Government of Catalonia in the 2009-2013, 2014-2016, 2017-2021 and 2022-2024 calls.
The main objective of the GRIC research group is to contribute to the transition of urban systems towards sustainability putting the focus on buildings as essential elements for achieving EU decarbonization objectives.
This goal embraces an integrated vision of climate-neutral, user-centric, energy efficient, circular and digitalised construction ecosystem from the design, manufacturing, construction, operation, renovation and end-of-life management of the built environment as a whole, from buildings to infrastructures.
Special emphasis is put on easing a cost-effective transition of existing buildings to net zero-emission buildings while keeping the occupants' wellbeing, both in terms of thermal comfort and good indoor air quality. This can be achieved by improving buildings’ operation, control and maintenance, including the use of renewable sources and enhancing smart grids and energy communities. In any case, devised solutions always accommodate both the environmental and social perspectives.
Within this context, GRIC research is supported by the use of data and implementation of digital solutions as an essential basis for the transition towards a more resilient economy.
