Publications

Italy’s building sector is off track for 2030 and 2050 climate goals, needing faster CO2 reductions, renewable energy expansion, and targeted renovations despite increased investments.

This white paper is part of the Implementation Working Group 5 on Energy Efficiency in Buildings (IWG5-Buildings) and contributes to the European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan.

AI is transforming sustainable building practices by optimising energy efficiency in both design and operations, offering cost-effective solutions for reducing carbon emissions.

Thermotropic (TT) smart windows, especially those with blinds, enhance energy efficiency and daylight comfort, achieving up to 18.9% energy savings by dynamically regulating solar energy.

The ‘en-SʘLEX’ solar exoskeleton enables efficient building retrofitting, reducing heating and cooling energy use by up to 80.7% and 60.5%, transforming buildings into NetPlus energy producers.

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) recast provides opportunities for integrating seismic safety and energy efficiency in building renovations, focusing on community engagement and EU policies, as demonstrated by the e-SAFE project for reinforced concrete buildings.

This study develops a novel framework integrating Urban Digital Twins and Zero Energy Buildings to optimise energy management, enhance sustainability, and inform smart city development.

The Smart Square project develops tools to assess building intelligence through the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI), with audits in pilot buildings, an observatory for monitoring progress, and a call centre issuing over 3,600 ratings.

The guide highlights how local communities are leading sustainable urban transformations through citizen-led co-design, offering insights and frameworks for creating more connected, ecologically sustainable cities.

'AI for Future Cities' explores the impact of artificial intelligence on urban planning, design, and management, highlighting its potential benefits, challenges, and the need for responsible use in shaping sustainable cities.