The path towards energy transition

by Bruna Felici, ENEA and Francesca Insabato, Roma TRE University

Urban planning and Smart City are strictly interrelated concepts towards a sustainable vision. The article illustrates the example of the Lyon Confluence district, Europe's largest regeneration project where Hikari, the first positive energy block realized in France, is located

The previous, first number of the column Cosa succede in città (i.e. What’s up in town) has highlighted the central role of the multidimensional and integrated vision which characterises the developing process of a Smart City. The concept of Smart City assumed by the EU consists of six different dimensions: Economy, Mobility, Environment, People, Life, Governance.

A similar level of sophistication requires smart policies, in order to face all of the challenges posed by the rapid growth of a city.

In fact, over decades to come, cities will become the elective living places of humankind; therefore, new rules and models of social organization must be implemented,  based on strict sustainable practices. Reducing energy consumption represents one of the main targets, since 80% of global primary consumption occurs in urban areas. The Future Energy Expo in Astana represents a step forward on the path towards energy transition, a significant matter for both the public at large and experts in  the field. …