Fostering Sustainable Urban Energy Transitions: Backcasting for Positive Energy Districts and Digital Twin strategies in a European context

Authors

Elena Malakhatka, Chalmers University of TechnologyFollow
Holger Wallbaum, Chalmers University of TechnologyFollow
Sara Abouebeid, Chalmers University of TechnologyFollow
Gerhard Hofer, E-SiebenFollow
Parham Pooyanfar, EkodengeFollow
İlker Dursun, Sakarya University of Applied SciencesFollow
Gundula Weber, Austrian Institute of TechnologyFollow
Hüseyin Serdar Geçer, Sakarya University of Applied SciencesFollow
Liane Thuvander, Chalmers University of TechnologyFollow

Abstract

Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) have emerged as a key urban innovation to accelerate the transition toward climate neutrality and sustainability in cities. This study explores the integration of backcasting methodologies and Digital Twin (DT) strategies to advance the development of PEDs. A two-step approach was employed: participatory backcasting workshops to co-create long-term visions and actionable strategies, and DT technology applications tailored to three Urban Living Labs (ULLs) in Vienna (Austria), Gothenburg (Sweden), and Sakarya (Türkiye). The backcasting process facilitated the identification of pathways to energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and decarbonization, creating a structured yet adaptable roadmap for PED development. DT functionalities—including Digitize, Visualize, Simulate, Predict, and Orchestrate—transformed these plans into operational tools, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive modeling, and adaptive energy management. The study underscores the critical role of stakeholder collaboration in aligning local priorities with sustainability goals and demonstrates the capacity of DT frameworks and PEDs to enhance energy efficiency in diverse urban contexts. However, challenges such as scalability, resource intensity, and sustaining long-term engagement persist. This dual approach highlights the potential of integrating participatory planning with advanced digital tools to bridge the gap between visionary energy goals and practical implementation, offering a replicable framework for urban energy transitions and decarbonization.

The paper will be presented:

Online

Primary U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Sustainable Cities and Communities - - Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

Secondary U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Climate Action - - Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Primary CIB Task Group OR Working commission

W116 – Smart and Sustainable Built Environments

Secondary CIB Task Group OR Working commission

W096 – Architectural Design and Management

Recommended Citation

Malakhatka, Elena; Wallbaum, Holger; Abouebeid, Sara; Hofer, Gerhard; Pooyanfar, Parham; Dursun, İlker; Weber, Gundula; Geçer, Hüseyin Serdar; and Thuvander, Liane (2025) "Fostering Sustainable Urban Energy Transitions: Backcasting for Positive Energy Districts and Digital Twin strategies in a European context," CIB Conferences: Vol. 1 Article 127.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.7771/3067-4883.1959