Renewables in Cities

Cities’ secret advantage in the energy transition is their ability to act swiftly and ambitiously to curb big polluters. 

The majority of energy consumption worldwide happens in cities, a trend which is only likely to increase. In 2018, around three-quarters of global final energy use was concentrated in cities, compared to just 45% in 1990. Unsurprisingly, around 75% of total global CO2 emissions are produced in urban areas.

As energy consumers, managers of energy networks and energy producers, city governments play key roles in the energy transition. City actors are uniquely positioned to decarbonise high-polluting energy end-use sectors, like heating and cooling in buildings, and the transport sector.

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Join the discussion on renewables in cities:

Wednesday 17 March 2021 – 15:15-16:15 CET
Cities offer clear opportunities to reduce emissions and develop climate-resilient future infrastructure. This session will shed light on the shaping of smart and liveable cities, as a place where traditional networks and services are made more efficient with digital and telecommunication technologies. Learn more on the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue website. 
 

Carbon Mitigation Strategies in Buildings and Heating | Urban Energy Forum
Thursday 18 March 2021 – 10:00-10:30 CET
REN21's Lea Ranalder will be speaking at the Urban Energy Forum on mapping out carbon mitigation strategies in the building and heating sector– How can the sector contribute to reaching Net Zero Emissions? Add to calendar.
 

Cities in the (Thermal) Energy Transition | Euroheat and Power Conference
Tuesday 4 May 2021 – 16:45 – 17:45 CET
Active players in their local energy markets, collaborating with their existing utilities and energy communities, cities across Europe are surpassing national energy transition targets by proactively setting their own ambitious strategies. This session will explore how smart city infrastructure and thermal networks go hand in hand, which drivers accelerate urban district heating projects and above all, what cities need from us. For more information, visit the event webpage. 
 

Regional & Thematic Events Related to Cities
22 March and onward through COP26
Within the context of the launch of the Renewables in Cities 2021 Global Status Report, REN21 and the REC Advisory Committee are coordinating events for each continent and for several key topics: transport, buildings, investment/financing, climate resilience, power/mini grids and air pollution. Sign up here to receive updates about these events.