New DUT PROPOSAL

This project aims to accelerate the creation of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) by developing a replicable solution to easily establish Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) in urban and peri-urban areas. Through an integrated approach combining satellite Earth Observation (EO) data, geospatial analytics, and AI-driven planning tools, the project will support municipalities in identifying optimal zones for clean energy production, energy sharing, and climate adaptation.

At its core, the solution empowers municipalities and local actors to:

• Rapidly map solar potential and building energy performance using EO data;

• Identify social housing and vulnerable areas as priority zones for inclusive energy communities;

• Plan and simulate Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)—such as urban greening, tree planting, and cooling corridors—to enhance resilience against urban heat islands and extreme weather;

• Monitor environmental, energy, and social KPIs to ensure long-term impact and community wellbeing.

The project will deliver a digital planning environment co-designed with municipalities, enabling quick onboarding of local stakeholders, streamlined technical assessment, and real-time monitoring of energy and climate goals. We invite two municipalities ready to lead the transition towards climate-neutral, resilient, and citizen-centered districts, by piloting the PED model with a focus on equity, simplicity, and impact