Lessons Learned from Four Real-Life Case Studies: Energy Balance Calculations for Implementing Positive Energy Districts

Helmut Bruckner (), Svitlana Alyokhina, Simon Schneider, Manuela Binder, Zain Ul Abdin, Rudi Santbergen, Maarten Verkou, Miro Zeman, Olindo Isabella, Marco Pagliarini, Cristiana Botta and Ana Streche
Additional contact information
Helmut Bruckner: Sonnenplatz Großschönau GmbH, 3922 Großschönau, Austria
Svitlana Alyokhina: University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, Renewable Energy Systems, 1200 Wien, Austria
Simon Schneider: University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, Renewable Energy Systems, 1200 Wien, Austria
Manuela Binder: Sonnenplatz Großschönau GmbH, 3922 Großschönau, Austria
Zain Ul Abdin: Delft University of Technology, PMVD, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
Rudi Santbergen: Delft University of Technology, PMVD, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
Maarten Verkou: PV Works, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
Miro Zeman: Delft University of Technology, PMVD, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
Olindo Isabella: Delft University of Technology, PMVD, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
Marco Pagliarini: LINKS Foundation, 10138 Torino, Italy
Cristiana Botta: LINKS Foundation, 10138 Torino, Italy
Ana Streche: Denkstatt Romania SRL, 300425 Timişoara, Romania

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 3, 1-17

Abstract: Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are integral to achieving sustainable urban development by enhancing energy self-sufficiency and reducing carbon emissions. This paper explores energy balance calculations in four diverse case study districts within different climatic conditions—Fiat Village in Settimo Torinese (Italy), Großschönau (Austria), Beursplain in Amsterdam (Netherlands), and Lunca Pomostului in Reşiţa (Romania)—as part of the SIMPLY Positive project. Each district faces unique challenges, such as outdated infrastructure or heritage protection, which we address through tailored strategies including building renovations and the integration of renewable energy systems. Additionally, we employ advanced simulation methodologies to assess energy performance. Simulation results highlight the significance of innovative technologies like photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems, application of demand-side actions, and flexible grid usage. Furthermore, mobility assessments and resident-driven initiatives demonstrate the critical role of community engagement in reducing carbon footprints. This study underscores the adaptability of PED frameworks across varied urban contexts and provides actionable insights for scaling similar strategies globally, supporting net-zero energy targets.

Keywords: positive energy district; energy balance; photovoltaic-thermal system; mobility; demand-side actions; sustainable development (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
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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