So far positive energy districts and neighbourhoods (PEDs) have been predominantly researched from a technological and energy perspective, often with a focus on electricity and related to new buildings. While the building level is clearly regulated with known possibilities for intervention, this is not the case for the level of districts and neighbourhoods. A broader implementation of the PED concept therefore requires a special focus on legal, institutional and organisational issues and a focus on the main actors, the cities, to develop effective instruments and structures. The cities of Brussels, Vienna and Stockholm join forces to initiate and steer in-depth exchange and capacity building, fed with first-hand experiences.

Enlarged by R&I partners, the consortium dives deep to understand how decisive legal instruments and planning processes of cities need to be adapted to realise PEDs. Furthermore, solutions for the missing administrative existence of the district/neighbourhood level are investigated to ensure long-term engagement and follow-up. Ideas and findings are reflected and validated in multi-stakeholder groups in each city. With the commitment from a European-wide network and in dialogue with more cities a transnational community of practice will be stimulated. Results will be summarised in key recommendations for take-up and advancement.