Technical Feasibility for the Boosting of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) in Existing Mediterranean Districts: A Methodology and Case Study in Alcorcón, Spain

Abstract

The deployment of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) is currently facing a set of diverse and complex challenges, mainly arising from their novelty and the lack of practical experience. In that sense, there is a clear need for translating concepts and strategies into instruments that support the design, planning and operation of PEDs. The present research aims to address this gap by introducing a methodology to assess the potential of an existing district to be converted into a PED in the specific context of Mediterranean cities, which, in addition to presenting similar climatic characteristics, share a common urban pattern and culture. The first step consists of analyzing the initial state of the district through the study of its bioclimatic and urban characteristics and estimation of its energy demand. Then, the second step allows for selecting and designing a set of passive and active strategies for the district. Finally, the technical feasibility of the scenario is evaluated by calculating its annual energy balance. The methodology is applied to a district of Alcorcón, Spain. Results show that the selected district could achieve an annual surplus of 4 GWh and, therefore, has the technical potential to be converted into a PED.