Digital Twins for Positive Energy Districts: a 10-Step Method for Integrated Design and Optimized Operation

Background Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) are central to the European Union’s vision for climate-neutral cities, offering a transformative model for sustainable urban development. However, their systemic, multiscalar, and interdisciplinary nature introduces significant challenges in both planning and operation. Currently, the support of digital twins to PEDs planning and operation is limited due to technological, organizational, and institutional barriers, as highlighted in previous studies. This study explores the role of digital twins in addressing the complexities of PEDs. Method and results Accordingly, a step-by-step methodology is proposed to guide the development and implementation of digital twins throughout the PED lifecycle, from early planning to operational management. The methodology emphasizes the integration of technological and spatial dimensions and incorporates user experience research (UXR) to ensure effective stakeholder engagement. The proposed methodology was developed within the context of the PED under development at the Politecnico di Torino campus. This case study demonstrates how digital twins can support system design, simulation, real-time control, and transparent reporting, while also enhancing stakeholder involvement. Conclusions All in all, digital twins hold significant potential to overcome the inherent complexities of PEDs, yet their adoption remains limited. The presented methodology offers a structured approach to facilitate their integration, promoting more effective planning, operation, and stakeholder collaboration in PED initiatives.