Exploring Sustainable Energy Potential in Positive Energy Districts (PED) via Geographic Information System (GIS)” Beril Alpagut, Demir Enerji

The Positive Energy District concept is an urban development strategy derived from carbon-neutral and zero-energy communities within the scope of smart city and sustainability studies. It aims to reduce energy consumption and increase energy production to minimize the negative effects of climate change. The strategy has become more accessible through the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, in particular the goals of affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, sustainable consumption and production patterns, and climate action. PEDs are districts or neighbourhoods transformed to achieve annual net zero emissions, energy self-sufficiency, and renewable energy surplus. Renewable energy technology should be utilized to create a self-sufficient region in terms of energy production and ensure that citizens living in the region have access to energy at affordable prices. A combination of energy systems such as users, district energy, mobility, and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) systems should also be included in the PED to meet citizens’ basic needs, such as electricity, heating, or cooling. It is also expected that more domestic renewable energy will be produced in the PED region than is consumed outside the region, not only to meet the electricity needs of citizens. In this way, a net zero energy balance will be maintained while generating energy surpluses. The design of the zone will ensure that the energy generated will be transmitted to connected buildings. This principle distinguishes these zones from other concepts as it strengthens social boundaries and gives character to the zones. Renewable energy potential is an important factor in determining PED zones to ensure energy balance within the PED and generate excess renewable energy.

This study aims to determine the renewable energy potential of a region designated as PED in a district of Istanbul using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Renewable energy is essential as it will increase the success and efficiency of the PED field. Within the scope of the study, solar energy, one of the renewable energy sources, was discussed. In order to evaluate the solar energy potential and efficiency of the region, the insolation and shade characteristics of the study area were analysed with GIS. With this study, the solar energy potential of the PED area can be evaluated, and if the region is suitable, suitable solutions for solar energy can be produced in the region. By evaluating the renewable energy production potential of the PED areas, alternative solutions can be produced for new renewable energy production studies. 

Session Chair:

Hande Demirel, Istanbul Technical University (PROPEL) – Aysenur Kocyigit, Istanbul Technical University (PROPEL) – Beril Alpagut, Demir Enerji (PROPEL) – Damla Muhcu, Kadikoy Municipality