Inflation, energy crisis and construction cost explosion: Due to the economic situation, the content of the energy saving fair is more relevant than ever this year. OÖN spoke to Robert Schneider, Managing Director of Messe Wels, regarding the innovations that visitors can expect from March 3rd to 5th.
OÖN: Since the trade fair last year, costs in the construction sector and in the energy sector have risen massively. How did that affect the trade fair concept?
Robert Schneider: This year we have 100 more exhibitors than in 2022, a total of around 350. On the one hand, this is due to the longer preparation time – last year we had to get the trade fair up and running very quickly. On the other hand, it also shows that interest has risen sharply and that companies want to present their innovations to the public. People are concerned with questions regarding construction costs and energy prices – the answers can be found at the energy saving trade fair. In addition to the entrepreneurs, we have many exhibitors with consulting services, above all the Energy Saving Association, and many lectures on energy saving and sustainable building.
Image: cityfoto/Simlinger
Which topics are particularly in demand?
We have noticed that interest in photovoltaic systems has increased significantly. There are also many exciting innovations, such as solar roof tiles. The number of exhibitors for heating systems has also grown in particular, and we expect a high level of public interest here.
How does the energy saving trade fair deal with greenwashing?
This is actually not an issue in the energy sector. The products of the exhibitors have to be energy-saving and prove this with key figures. Therefore, this is not necessary in this area.
What else is new compared to last year?
We have further expanded our digital trade fair offering. The information from the exhibitors can be called up online, where you can already read in to prepare.
You can find the digital trade fair at energiesparmesse.at
Author
Valentin Bayer
Editor Upper Austria
Valentin Bayer
