Architectural integration of solar energy at the urban scale: case studies and potentialities
It is well known that one of the pathways towards resource efficiency is energy efficiency, which is also represented by the transition towards a low carbon economy. This transition involves, amongst other strategies, the spread of renewable energy sources in our cities, which is also one of the aims of SDG No. 7. This research aimed at explaining the current architectural integration of solar plants at the urban scale (neighborhoods, small towns, urban infrastructure, and large urban solar arrays). The research involved the study of examples in the Asia-Pacific region identified through a set of criteria on urban morphology and building design. Countries like Japan, China, and the US have activated important programs and strategies towards the development of large community solar power generation. These models provide examples for the study of potential large-scale applications at other latitudes of the Pacific Rim.