Spaces, Energy and Shared Resources: New Technologies for Promoting More Inclusive and Sustainable Urban Communities

Fabrizio Cumo, Elisa Pennacchia (), Patrick Maurelli, Flavio Rosa and Claudia Zylka
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Fabrizio Cumo: CITERA Interdepartmental Research Centre Territory, Building, Restoration and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Gramsci, 53, 00197 Rome, Italy
Elisa Pennacchia: CITERA Interdepartmental Research Centre Territory, Building, Restoration and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Gramsci, 53, 00197 Rome, Italy
Patrick Maurelli: CITERA Interdepartmental Research Centre Territory, Building, Restoration and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Gramsci, 53, 00197 Rome, Italy
Flavio Rosa: CITERA Interdepartmental Research Centre Territory, Building, Restoration and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Gramsci, 53, 00197 Rome, Italy
Claudia Zylka: Department of Astronautical, Electrical and Energy Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana, 18, 00184 Rome, Italy

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 16, 1-25

Abstract: Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) are central to Europe’s strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing a sustainable, decentralized energy system. RECs aim to transform consumers into prosumers—individuals who both produce and consume energy—thereby enhancing energy efficiency, local autonomy, and citizen engagement. This study introduces a novel Geographic Information System (GIS)-based methodology that integrates socio-economic and spatial data to support the design of optimal REC configurations. QGIS 3.40.9 “Batislava” tool is used to simulate site-specific energy distribution scenarios, enabling data-driven planning. By combining a Composite Energy Vulnerability Index (CEVI), Rooftop Solar Potential (RSP), and the distribution of urban gardens (UGs), the approach identifies priority urban zones for intervention. Urban gardens offer multifunctional public spaces that can support renewable infrastructures while fostering local resilience and energy equity. Applied to the city of Rome, the methodology provides a replicable framework to guide REC deployment in vulnerable urban contexts. The results demonstrate that 11 of the 18 highest-priority areas already host urban gardens, highlighting their potential as catalysts for collective PV systems and social engagement. The proposed model advances sustainability objectives by integrating environmental, social, and spatial dimensions—positioning RECs and urban agriculture as synergistic tools for inclusive energy transition and climate change mitigation.

Keywords: renewable energy communities; geographic information system; energy planning; energy transition; climate change mitigation; renewable energy technologies; urban garden (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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