4) Zoning

In step four, the aim is to define sub-areas and neighbourhoods with special characteristics that are to be supported particularly intensively with measures for a climate-neutral H&C supply. For example, these may include expansion areas for district heating or areas in which particularly intensive renovation is to be carried out. Step four is closely interlinked with step five, in the sense that both steps are iterative. For example, the designation of areas can be the result of a “technical” scenario analysis.

Zoning: Using urban development methods for planning H&C measures

Zoning is a method of urban planning in which the urban area is divided into so-called zones. Each of these zones may have its own planning and building regulations, which may differ from those of other zones. For example, size and dimensions of properties and their type of use (residential, commercial, etc.) are specified. In addition, requirements for the construction of buildings may be specified.

Zoning therefore offers opportunities to influence the development of the H&C sector in numerous places. For example, it can be specified that all newly constructed buildings in a certain zone meet certain minimum energy standards.

Moreover, zones that are particularly predestined for district heating can be identified. In addition, areas can be zoned according to the energy status of the buildings in them, e.g. to analyse in which areas renovation campaigns would be particularly effective.

Tools/Literature

How the zoning step can actually be implemented within the framework of municipal H&C planning depends on the local administrative procedures, but especially also on the legal framework. There is therefore no blueprint. Suggestions on how to link spatial planning and energy planning can be found in reports from Horizon 2020 projects.

• Ball et al. (2011): Integrated Urban Development Approach Targeting at Energy Efficient Residential Areas.Contains 13 illustrative practical examples. https://www.deutscher-verband.org/fileadmin/user_upload/documents/Brosch%C3%BCren/Urb.Energy_Integrated_urban_development_WP3_manual.pdf
• Hemis et al (2017): Integrating energy in urban planning processes – insights from Amsterdam/Zaanstad, Berlin, Paris, Stockholm, Vienna, Warsaw and Zagreb. https://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/documents/downloadPublic?documentIds=080166e5b3cb48d9&appId=PPGMS