The Hanseatic City of Lübeck has set out to make its heat supply sustainable and climate-neutral. The big picture “Lübecks Weg zur grünen Wärmeversorgung” visualizes this transformation process and makes the complex interrelationships understandable and tangible. Three central approaches form the basis for this:
1. Municipial heat planning
The basis for a sustainable heat supply lies in the expansion of the district heating network, the promotion of energy communities and the installation of heat pumps in individual houses. Modern technologies such as river heat pumps and the use of wastewater heat play a central role and contribute directly to feeding heat into the district heating network.
2. Neighborhood concepts
In close cooperation with citizens, Lübeck relies on tailor-made neighborhood concepts. Renovations of old buildings and the promotion of citizen involvement through events strengthen local commitment. In addition, photovoltaic systems and green roofs support the energy efficiency and sustainability of the neighborhoods.
3. Transformation plans for district heating
The existing district heating structures are being transformed by innovative solutions. River heat pumps and wastewater heat utilization form the basis for a climate-neutral heat supply that will make Lübeck independent of fossil fuels in the long term.

The big picture “Lübecks Weg zur grünen Wärmeversorgung” is a vivid example of how visualizations can make complex processes understandable and facilitate communication in transformation projects.
The challenge
The biggest challenge was to communicate the complexity of the project in a clear and understandable way – both for the citizens and for the numerous stakeholders such as municipal utilities, trade, science and administration.
Solution
The Big Picture creates a clear, visual structure that illustrates the three central paths and their connections. It provides orientation, facilitates communication between the stakeholders and promotes understanding and acceptance among the population. Challenges such as monument protection, narrow streets and noise pollution are addressed by the visualization so that all stakeholders can work together in a targeted manner.
Vision for Lübeck
Lübeck is exemplary for a sustainable future. Historic buildings conceal modern technology inconspicuously behind their façades, while new development areas impress with sustainable materials and green communal areas. Energy districts characterize the cityscape: while single-family homes on the outskirts of the city operate autonomously, innovative heating solutions supply neighborhoods in the urban area. Public buildings act as role models and set new standards in energy efficiency.
CUSTOMER: Hanseatic City of Lübeck
SCOPE OF SERVICE: Development of a Big Picture for use in print and digital
PROJECT PERIOD: 1 month
BUDGET: Four-digit range
The Big Picture has helped us to make the heat transition in Lübeck tangible and understandable. It is a useful communication tool that helps us to motivate all those involved and to take the climate course together.
Ben Colin Matthies, Climate control center, Hanseatic City of Lübeck