The Energy Self-Sufficient City

Abstract

The concept of an “energy self-sufficient city” envisions decentralised energy production in neighbourhoods and villages connected through a regional “thermal smart grid.” Prioritising renewable local energy sources such as biomass, solar, geothermal, and refuse-derived fuels, this model contrasts with centralised fossil-fuel-based systems that transport energy over long distances. The proposed framework integrates decentralised plants across different settlement types—urban, rural, industrial, and mixed-use—allowing planners to evaluate potential energy self-sufficiency. Model case studies demonstrate that feasibility depends largely on the availability of land for biomass cultivation. The methodology provides both quantitative and qualitative insights, supporting optimisation of settlement structures for sustainable regional energy supply.