A Strategic Project for the City and Science 

At Aiguasol, we have contributed to the new Mercat del Peix project in Barcelona, providing expertise in HVAC systems and energy efficiency, as well as evaluating the center’s connection to the urban district heating network and its energy integration with the Ciutadella campus.

Located next to Parc de la Ciutadella, the new Mercat del Peix will bring together leading scientific institutions such as Universitat Pompeu Fabra, the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), and the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE-CSIC-UPF), fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Covering 45,000 m², with a projected investment of €93 million and capacity for 1,200 researchers, the complex will consist of three buildings dedicated to biomedicine, biodiversity, and planetary well-being.

Supported by the Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia, the project aims to generate multidisciplinary research to address global challenges, including the climate emergency, high-impact diseases, and biodiversity loss, positioning itself as a European benchmark in scientific research.

Forward-Looking Energy Advisory

One of our core contributions has been the evaluation and conceptual design of the new complex’s connection to the district heating network operated by Districlima. We also analyzed the integration of the existing Ciutadella campus, whose HVAC systems are highly compatible, operating at similar water temperature ranges.

Aleksandar Ivancic, Senior Consultant at Aiguasol, collaborated with the jury evaluating the architectural proposals for the two IBE-CSIC-UPF buildings, participating in the review of the Environmental Reports and assessing them against 12 established energy efficiency and sustainability criteria, ensuring the project’s long-term energy viability.

Our work also included technical analysis of energy feasibility and advisory support for the development of a comprehensive energy strategy that combines passive demand-reduction measures with highly efficient district energy supply and decarbonized energy sources, optimizing consumption, reducing emissions, and promoting a more resilient, environmentally responsible urban model.

A Commitment to Knowledge and the Territory

The project is part of the “Ciutadella del Conocimiento” (Ciutadella of knowledge) initiative, which seeks to transform the Parc de la Ciutadella area into a space dedicated to science, culture, and critical thinking. Participation in this initiative allows us to apply our expertise to support smart, sustainable, and people-centered urban development.

At Aiguasol, we believe that a successful energy transition can only be achieved through technical rigor, commitment, and collaboration. Projects like the Mercat del Peix inspire us to continue developing practical solutions that transform cities, reduce emissions, and harness innovation in the service of citizens and the planet.