Digital Energy Net

TOD zones are regulated areas surrounding light rail transit stations that support a mix of uses within an attractive pedestrian friendly environment, offering tangible performance outcomes (such as lower traffic casualty rates, transportation costs and energy consumption) for households, businesses and governments alike. TODs represent a synergy between compact urban forms and public transport use,…

Sustainable urban infrastructure refers to infrastructure that is planned, designed, built and operated in such a way as to promote economic, social and environmental wellbeing. Examples of sustainable infrastructure are car parking reduction by increasing walking and biking opportunities; treating stormwater near its source to avoid chemical pollution; and re-establishing green spaces to create recreation…

Sustainability involves creating an environment in which all people can live peacefully, prosperously and harmoniously with nature. To do this successfully requires that governments as well as individuals practice tolerance, social cohesion and justice in all their endeavors. Sustainable development was introduced internationally for the first time with Brundtland Report’s publication (also referred to as…

Energy efficiency programs reduce wasteful consumption in air conditioners, refrigerators, electric lamps and vehicles. Furthermore, they help families avoid financial insecurity and make paying utility bills less of an inconvenience than buying food. Energy efficiency can also help the environment: Saving on energy consumption reduces carbon emissions while helping protect you from steep energy price…

A smart grid is a network of controls, computers, automation and new technologies and equipment connected by an electric circuit. Like the Internet, however, all its parts need time to come together smoothly. These solutions enable utilities to recognize and isolate power disruptions quickly to limit their spread, drastically decreasing the number of people affected…

Cities employ smart solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability, increase public safety and enhance quality of life for their citizens. These solutions range from public Wi-Fi networks and waste management systems to advanced surveillance technologies. Engagement between communities and Smart City projects is of utmost importance in order to meet community needs and priorities. This…

Energy storage technologies can make renewable energy more viable by charging when there is excess wind or solar generation and discharging when demand peaks – maximising their use. Battery energy storage systems (BESSs) have become an increasingly popular way of storing solar electricity for use at homes, businesses and utilities. Other storage technologies include compressed…

Urban mobility refers to how people move through cities. It encompasses personal, commercial and freight movements. Personal movement includes commutes and recreational excursions while commercial movements include retail and service operations that predominate during working hours. The BMW Group is creating concepts to make city traffic safer, more efficient, and digitally connected. Each project we…

Land use planning involves evaluating and determining how a piece of land should be utilized, along with setting development goals and objectives. Effective land-use planning fosters efficiency, equity and sustainability. To ensure people have access to resources they require and all members can participate in environmental decisions effectively, effective land use planning must ensure efficient…

Zoning regulations are local municipal laws that divide a region into districts or zones and regulate what can be done on each. They may also establish rules pertaining to how buildings look. Zoning exists to promote economic development, regulate traffic flows and noise levels, as well as provide living space for residents. These goals can…