Despite facing a series of intertwined environmental, social, and political challenges, the European Union is committed to cutting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The objective is supported by increasing the share of renewable energy to 42.5% in 20230 as inscribed in the EU Renewable Energy Directive.

Cities are grounds for experiments where commitment, cause, and chances intersect. City districts are the centre of our urban environment, showcasing interactions between objects, space, and society. This also allows us to rethink and redesign these spaces. Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are one of these reimagined spaces, as they are key enablers for emission reduction, allowing for experimentation beyond the building and mobility sectors.

Due to their high potential, the EU aims to develop at least 100 PEDs by 2025. However, governments at all levels need help to roll-out strategies that will tackle their demands and needs. By creating a digital twin of the urban environment, the TIPS4PED project will enable urban designers, city administration, industry, and citizens to negotiate, share their vision, simulate and test different scenarios such as retrofitting existing buildings, sizing renewable energy systems, alternative mobility charging and energy storage capacity. This enables a more efficient use of energy resources and reduces environmental impact and costs while increasing awareness and participation.

With a people-centric approach at heart, the four mission cities, ICLEI Members Kozani (Greece), Budapest (Hungary), and Cork (Ireland) as well as Turin (Italy) will implement, test, and replicate innovative solutions provided by TIPS4PED. The project is driven by the ambitious goals set by the European Commission. Together with partners from Tyndall National Institute, Cork City Council, RINA, LINKS, IES, POLIS, FACTUAL, LUT, CIRCE, City of Turin, IREN, POLITO, Municipality of Kozani, CluBE, Kőbánya district and FairCity, ICLEI Europe is set to contribute to the 2030 EU environmental objectives building on past experiences and expertise.