In the heart of Europe, two neighborhoods are undergoing transformative changes that could reshape the future of urban energy consumption and sustainability. The Picoto Housing Complex in Braga, Portugal, and the Adurtza neighborhood in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, are at the forefront of a pioneering effort to combine energy efficiency and renewable energy sources at the district level. This initiative, detailed in a recent study published by Raúl Briones-Llorente of the University of Burgos, offers a blueprint for how cities can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs.
Briones-Llorente, a researcher at the University of Burgos’ Department of Mathematics and Computation and a member of the Energy Engineering Research Group (iENERGÍA), led the study under the auspices of the International Energy Agency’s Annex 75 project. The research focuses on the potential of large-scale energy retrofitting in residential areas, aiming to slash energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The Picoto Housing Complex and Adurtza neighborhood were chosen for their distinct characteristics and challenges. In both cases, the researchers conducted on-site evaluations, simulations, and implemented passive renovation measures such as envelope improvements and heat recovery ventilation systems. The goal was to create energy-efficient buildings that could significantly reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources.
“By focusing on district-level retrofitting, we can achieve economies of scale that make the transition to energy efficiency and renewable energy more cost-effective,” Briones-Llorente explained. “This approach not only reduces energy bills for residents but also contributes to the broader goals of decarbonization and sustainability.”
The study highlights the substantial potential for energy savings in these neighborhoods. However, it also acknowledges the challenges that remain. Costs and implementation hurdles are significant barriers, but the long-term benefits—including improved quality of life, public health, and energy equity—make a compelling case for continued investment and innovation.
The findings from these case studies could have far-reaching implications for the energy sector. As cities worldwide grapple with the need to reduce their carbon emissions, the lessons learned from Picoto and Adurtza could serve as a model for similar initiatives. The integration of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies at the district level could revolutionize urban energy management, making it more sustainable and resilient.
For energy companies, this research opens up new opportunities for investment and innovation. The demand for energy-efficient solutions and renewable energy technologies is likely to grow, driven by both regulatory pressures and consumer demand. Companies that can offer cost-effective and scalable solutions will be well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
The study, published in Annals of Construction, underscores the importance of a holistic approach to energy retrofitting. By addressing both the technical and economic aspects of the transition, cities can achieve significant reductions in energy consumption and emissions. As Briones-Llorente notes, “The future of urban energy lies in integrated, district-level solutions that prioritize efficiency and sustainability.”
The success of these pilot projects could pave the way for similar initiatives in other cities, transforming the way we think about energy consumption and sustainability. For the energy sector, this represents a significant opportunity to drive innovation and growth, while contributing to a more sustainable future. As cities around the world look to reduce their carbon footprint, the lessons from Picoto and Adurtza could provide a roadmap for a greener, more energy-efficient future.