Development of an Energy Community through semi-dynamic simulation of a urban social housing

Abstract

Energy communities (ECs) are instrumental in driving the transition to renewable energy in urban areas. This study focuses on implementing ECs in Rome’s Tor Bella Monaca district, with a particular focus on linear mass housing. Using the Urban Modeling Interface (UMI) and Simulink, four energy community scenarios were simulated to evaluate their potential outcomes. The scenarios involved integrating photovoltaics and heat pumps into the community’s infrastructure to assess their impact on renewable energy production and CO2 reduction. The results demonstrate that higher electrification within an energy community leads to increased self-consumption of renewable energy and reduced reliance on the grid. Furthermore, the integration of heat pumps enhances energy consumption efficiency. This research highlights the significant potential of energy communities and innovative technologies in managing local renewable energy resources effectively. It provides valuable insights for developing sustainable energy models in urban areas. It emphasizes the importance of carefully evaluating technology sizing, integration, and the inclusion of thermal and electrical storage to maximize self-consumption while minimizing CO2 emissions. The study’s findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders involved in sustainable energy management. They underscore the need for a holistic approach that combines technological advancements, community engagement, and thoughtful integration of renewable energy systems. Ultimately, this research contributes to the adoption of energy communities as crucial elements of a resilient and environmentally-friendly future.