Reference project Baugenossenschaft Familienheim eG: Radio conversion

Successful LoRaWAN® radio upgrade for approximately 2.400 apartments

The housing cooperative Familienheim eG, in partnership with Minol, has retrofitted approximately 2.400 apartments with remotely readable metering technology. The new wireless infrastructure provides the basis for consumption information and modern, compliant management according to the German Heating Cost Ordinance (HKVO).

Baugenossenschaft Familienheim eG: Designing living space with responsibility

For over 75 years, the housing cooperative Familienheim eG has been creating and managing modern living spaces. True to its guiding principle, "Search. Find. Feel at home.", it develops, builds, and manages residential complexes and commercial properties in the Black Forest-Baar-Heuberg region, as well as in the Lake Constance and Neckar region. With approximately 2.700 apartments, it focuses on sustainable management. To prepare its portfolio early for the requirements of the German Heating Cost Ordinance (Heizkostenverordnung), it opted for conversion to remotely readable metering technology. The housing cooperative has relied on its partnership with Minol for many years. This trusting partnership also formed the basis for the successful implementation of the wireless metering conversion.

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Challenge: Retrofitting 2.400 apartments while they remain in operation

For the housing cooperative, the conversion to wireless technology meant replacing more than 17.000 measuring devices in 122 properties. The work had to be carried out while the buildings remained operational, with the 2.400 apartments continuing to be occupied and managed. Therefore, precise organization of the work was crucial to minimize disruption for residents and management.

Solution: Step by step to remotely readable infrastructure

Following joint project planning, the phased conversion of the existing buildings began in early 2024. By May, the majority of the apartments were equipped. Thanks to structured preparation and close coordination among all parties involved, the wireless conversion was almost completely finished within a few months. As part of the project, 17.233 measuring devices were upgraded to modern wireless measurement technology.

devices	Quantity
Heat cost allocator	11.983
water meter	4.893
Heat meter	357

With Minol's metering technology, the housing cooperative meets the requirements of the German Heating Costs Ordinance (Heizkostenverordnung) well in advance. The solution enables remote reading of consumption data and provides the basis for interim consumption reports. At the same time, it reduces on-site visits and simplifies administrative processes. Minol also prepares the heating bills and interim consumption reports for the housing cooperative.

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Success factor: A well-established partnership

In addition to meticulous project planning, the close collaboration of all involved parties was a key factor in the project's success. Throughout the entire renovation, the housing cooperative Familienheim eG, Minol, the installation team, and the residents worked closely together. Early scheduling, transparent communication, and the coordination of follow-up appointments ensured that the work was carried out smoothly.

With the successful conversion of 17.233 measuring devices, the housing cooperative Familienheim eG is well prepared for the requirements of the Heating Cost Ordinance. The project demonstrates that even extensive modernization projects in large housing portfolios can be implemented efficiently with structured planning, modern wireless technology, and close cooperation.

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