Integrated energy planning and design of neighbourhoods: A novel process derived from four real-life case studies in Europe

Abstract

Focusing on the neighbourhood scale in the transition to a low-carbon built environment is crucial for mitigating the climate crisis and realising the UN sustainability goals of 2030. The neighbourhood approach enables the integration of energy, social, and environmental solutions, thereby creating synergies that are challenging to achieve at the individual building level. In addition, a neighbourhood facilitates energy sharing, flexibility, and the efficient use of local renewable resources while empowering communities to actively participate in sustainable energy transitions.

This paper investigates neighbourhood projects with the objective of establishing an innovative approach to planning and designing sustainable plus energy neighbourhoods. This novel process is referred to as integrated energy planning and design for neighbourhoods (IED^N). It is based on the integrated energy design process (IED). The foundation of this study is four real-life neighbourhoods with a surplus of renewable energy developed in Norway, Spain, The Netherlands, and Austria. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, based on multiple case study research and qualitative data. Data triangulation was used to validate the study results, including interviews with project teams, workshops with stakeholders, academic literature review and desk research. The demonstration projects highlighted various innovative features. Advanced MPC controls were developed and implemented through collaborative efforts among multiple stakeholders. Detailed urban simulations for energy sharing between buildings, iterative design, and performance assessments aimed to achieve the plus energy goal. Expertise tailored to specific site conditions and risk management associated with implementing innovative energy systems and technology allowed for novel and high-performance solutions.