Adaptive spatial planning for equitable renewable energy allocation in multi-owned buildings: A policy-integrated digital twin approach

Under-utilised rooftops in Multi-owned Buildings (MOBs) represent a vital yet untapped potential for renewable energy generation in urban areas. However, equitable energy allocation and shared benefits pose substantial challenges, hindering Renewable Energy Systems (RES) adoption. This study introduces a policy-driven adaptive framework integrating building and region-specific parameters to identify suitable energy allocation models, facilitating widespread RES adoption. The framework assesses the physical and managerial MOB characteristics, such as building age, height, and common property ownership type, alongside regional parameters, including renter proportion, affordability, and regulatory conditions. Consequently, five policy instruments are analysed, identifying how tailored region-specific policy interventions can mitigate risks, enabling equitable energy allocation. A case study in Melbourne demonstrates that high-density, low-affordability regions like the Central Business District benefit from floor area allocation models when supported by financial incentives, while affluent regions like South Melbourne thrive with dedicated legal platforms supporting energy allocation. Our findings underscore the importance of adaptive, region-specific policies over the one-size-fits-all approach for advancing RES adoption. This adaptive model selection framework, enhanced with digital twin technology for scenario analysis, offers policymakers a data-driven tool for making informed decisions, supporting resource efficiency and sustainability, and laying a pathway for equitable RES integration across urban settings.