The DigiTwins4PEDs research project presented its latest research findings at the Urban Transformation Conference 2025, an international scientific event on urban sustainability and transformative research approaches organised by the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. The conference brought together stakeholders from science, practice and civil society to discuss ways to achieve a sustainable urban future.
Under the title ‘Co-Creating Urban Energy Transition with Living Labs and Urban Digital Twins,’ the project presented an integrative approach to supporting the urban energy transition. The contribution shows how Urban Digital Twins (UDTs) can be used in conjunction with living labs to not only plan the development of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) from a technical perspective, but also to promote them in a socially participatory manner with citizens and stakeholders.
Digital twins enable a comprehensible representation and simulation of energy scenarios and flexibility options at the neighbourhood level. In combination with co-design and co-creation formats, they create new avenues for social participation, raise awareness of energy issues and promote local acceptance and engagement. This user-centred process combines technical expertise with social participation – a crucial factor for a successful and inclusive energy transition.
Participation in the Urban Transformation Conference 2025 underscores DigiTwins4PEDs’ contribution to the international debate on digital tools, social participation and sustainable urban development. The project thus provides important impetus for the integration of technological innovations and social transformation on the path to resilient, energy-positive urban neighbourhoods.
Further information can be found here.
