The role of urban spatial structure in energy resilience: An integrated assessment framework using a hybrid factor analysis and analytic network process model

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between urban spatial structure and energy resilience at the local level. Sub-district no.7 of District no.1 of Tehran was selected as the study area. First, to evaluate the energy resilience of 250 blocks of the study area, 28 indicators in four components of urban geometry and morphology, land use, public transportation, and passive design were adopted. Subsequently, using a hybrid factor analysis and analytic network process (F'ANP) model, flexibility, interdependence, coordination capacity, equity, efficiency, self-organization, independence, and diversity were determined as the eight underlying energy resilience principles related to the spatial structure of the study area. The composite index results reveal that principles and indicators related to transportation have a more significant role in energy resilience than operational energy-related ones. Also, increasing compactness without simultaneous attention to the mass-space ratio and adequate provision of green spaces does not necessarily lead to increased energy resilience and may even detract from resilience. To illustrate the practical implications of the study findings, we recommend action plans that can contribute to enhancing the energy resilience of the study area. The proposed globally applicable framework is expected to give urban planners a better understanding ofurban form and spatial structure implicationsfor energy resilience. It can also inform planning and decision making for achieving urban climate change adaptation and mitigation targets.