Digital Energy Net

Mix-use development combines residential, commercial and civic space into one project in order to reduce car usage by making daily needs accessible via walking paths. It aims to decrease dependence on cars by making daily needs accessible in close proximity. Understand the tradeoff: Mixed-use projects increase walkability and density while raising property values, potentially dislocating…

Many traditional neighborhoods already incorporate many principles of TOD, such as walkable communities centered on Metro-North and LIRR stations in Westchester County. Upgrading these communities without creating displacement will result in a more sustainable urban form. TOD can reduce transportation costs disproportionately impacting low and moderate income households, thus freeing up income for food and…

Sustainable urban infrastructure seeks to achieve environmental, social and economic sustainability within urban environments by employing green infrastructure strategies such as circular economy practices, energy efficiency programs and sustainable mobility solutions. Nature-based infrastructure (NBI) is essential to sustainable urban development, offering cost-effective climate-resilient infrastructure services at a lower cost while simultaneously creating numerous co-benefits for…

Energy efficiency is one of the fastest, cheapest, and most equitable strategies to mitigate climate change impacts and achieve sustainable development goals. Economic benefits from increasing efficiency include lower utility bills, jobs created, and reduced energy price spikes which disproportionately harm lower-income households. It can also strengthen grid reliability. Insulation Insulation is one of the…

Sustainable development seeks to meet human needs without jeopardising future generations’ abilities to do so. It requires taking an integrated approach that encompasses economics, society and environment. However, the world is currently falling short in its pursuit of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set forth by the UN by 2030. Many key targets may be…

A smart grid uses digital technology to monitor and optimize electricity flow. It features advanced metering infrastructure which supports two-way communication with utilities and consumers; energy storage systems like batteries that help mitigate peak demand; virtual power plants which decrease excess capacity costs on grids; as well as energy-efficiency technologies which save costs in building…

Smart cities rely on cutting-edge technologies to gather data that allows city leaders to upgrade infrastructure and deliver services needed by citizens. Utilizing open access systems, these cities prioritize economic inclusion and eco-friendly practices. From New York to Zhejiang Province in China, these innovative approaches address issues like traffic gridlock and waste management. Utilizing smart…

Energy storage enables renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to be available when needed, not just when sunlight or winds blow. Similar to your phone or electric car battery, commercial and utility-scale battery energy storage systems (ESSs) are charged using electricity from the grid. ESSs help lower end-user demand charges while supporting a…

Urban mobility refers to the ease of travel between places such as work, home, and other destinations – an issue of great significance as urban populations expand and demand increases for sustainable transport solutions. While access can differ depending on which country it comes from, generally increasing with city population size in an incremental way.…

Zoning regulations govern how land is utilized and prevent incompatible developments from taking place, protecting communities while improving quality of life and maintaining property values. They may also help preserve historic buildings or landmarks. Traditional applications of zoning laws include building height limits, setback requirements and density controls with units per acre or floor area…