Assessing the performance of Positive Energy Districts: The need for innovative methods

Authors: Karen Williams, Renee Heller, Mark van Wees and Thomas Vastenhout (AUAS)

Journal: IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, Vol. 1085

Status: published

Publication date: 2022

Abstract:

Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are potential high-impact climate change mitigation actions towards low carbon or even climate neutral cities. This implies that the energy performance and greenhouse gas emissions of PEDs need to be assessed. To this end, an accounting methodology, metrics, supporting (accounting) tools, and reporting are necessary that capture the full energy and climate impact of PEDs. In this paper, we evaluate and compare accounting methods for assessing the energy performance of PEDs and conclude on their use and shortcomings. The hypothesis to be explored is that current accounting practices are based on accounting at a building level and alternative methodologies are needed to capture the full impacts at a district level.