Paper: Positive Energy Districts Solutions
Positive Energy Districts: The 10 Replicated Solutions in Maia, Reykjavik, Kifissia, Kladno and Lviv
by Zarrin Fatima, Marielisa Padilla, Michal Kuzmic, Aapo Huovila, Gretel Schaj and Niklas Effenberger
Cities have an undoubted significant role in climate change mitigation. Several cities across the globe have made commitments to sustainability transitions through green strategies. In the recent past, Europe has witnessed a surge in the development of smart cities and advancement towards creating more sustainable cities.
At the moment, the concept of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) further encourages districts and cities to change their business-as-usual ways to be more carbon neutral.
This paper looks at the five cities of Maia, Reykjavik, Kifissia, Kladno, and Lviv that are a part of an ongoing Horizon 2020 project. The purpose of the paper was to understand the steps the cities have taken to select the 10 solutions for replication. The information was collected through discussions, interviews and implementation plans developed by each city. It must be highlighted that each city’s circumstances differ in terms of political support, finances, technical expertise, and stakeholders’ interest, and this applies to all world cities when discussing the implementation of new efficient solutions. Cities across Europe and beyond may find themselves in a similar situation, and therefore, this paper also provides a story of the five Fellow Cities as they transition towards PEDs.
1. Introduction
Cities are the epicenters for climate mitigation strategies relating to energy, transport, buildings, industry, and agriculture [1]. While occupying only 2% of the total land, cities contribute 40% of the total energy consumption, constitute 70% of greenhouse gas emissions and about two-thirds of global energy demand [2,3,4]. Approximately 55% of the world’s population lives in urban areas at the moment, and this is expected to increase to 68% by 2050 [5,6]. The imperative role of cities in sustainability transitions is also stressed in the Sustainable Development Goal 11 that aims to “make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”. The United Nations has adopted the ‘New Urban Agenda’ [4] and the European Union has implemented the 2016 Pact of Amsterdam to address societal challenges and include urban aspects in policies. Furthermore, the European Green Deal makes explicit references to cities to reach the European Union’s (EU) climate-neutral and circular transition objectives [3].
Nonetheless, tackling climate consequences is not the sole responsibility of the city authorities, but also lies with the citizens who act in the form of users, producers, consumers, and owners. A collective effort of citizens may have a huge impact on urban areas, associations, and homes, which will further boost climate transition, advance the economy, and preserve the environment [1,3].
Indeed, transforming the building stock, mobility systems, industries, and urban infrastructure will no doubt require heavy investment and an integrated approach across all sectors including housing, transportation, and energy systems, as well as employment, education, and other urban services. This will contribute to better well-being, business opportunities, and increased growth for all [3]. Evidence shows that the pace of urbanization will be most evident in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. Hence, focusing on the urban and rural poor, including vulnerable groups, must be incorporated in urban transformation and development processes [6].