In the heart of Yerevan, Armenia, David Kertmenjian, a professor at the National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia, is challenging conventional wisdom in urban planning. His latest research, published in the Journal of Architectural and Engineering Research, delves into the seismic shifts occurring in contemporary architecture and city planning, with profound implications for the energy sector.
Kertmenjian’s work is a call to arms for urban planners and architects grappling with the realities of the 21st century. “We’re not just talking about building more buildings,” he asserts. “We’re talking about reimagining entire cities, about creating sustainable, livable spaces that can accommodate the influx of people and the challenges of climate change.”
At the core of Kertmenjian’s research is the concept of the megacity, a sprawling urban area with a population of over 10 million. These megacities, he argues, are not just larger versions of traditional cities. They are fundamentally different, with unique infrastructure needs and energy demands. “Megacities are not just big cities,” Kertmenjian explains. “They are a new type of settlement, with their own set of problems and opportunities.”
One of the most pressing issues, according to Kertmenjian, is the energy demand of these megacities. With more people and more buildings, the demand for energy is skyrocketing. But Kertmenjian sees this as an opportunity, not a problem. “If we can harness the power of these megacities, if we can make them energy-efficient and sustainable, we can set a new standard for urban living,” he says.
The implications for the energy sector are enormous. As cities grow, so too will the demand for clean, renewable energy. This could spur innovation in solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources. It could also drive the development of smart grids, which can manage energy demand more efficiently.
But Kertmenjian’s vision goes beyond just energy. He envisions cities that are not just sustainable, but also resilient. Cities that can withstand the impacts of climate change, from heatwaves to floods. Cities that are not just places to live, but places to thrive.
His research, published in the Journal of Architectural and Engineering Research, translated to English as the Journal of Architecture and Construction Sciences, is a roadmap for this future. It’s a call to action for urban planners, architects, and energy providers alike. It’s a challenge to think bigger, to think bolder, to think differently.
As Kertmenjian puts it, “We’re at a crossroads. We can either continue down the same path, building cities that are unsustainable and unlivable. Or we can take a new path, building cities that are sustainable, resilient, and truly livable. The choice is ours.”