Blog Category: Energy Justice & ADR

We often refer to the energy transition in terms of the now-familiar “4Ds”: decarbonisation, decentralisation, digitalisation, and democratisation. But while the first three benefit from well-developed frameworks, financial pipelines, and political urgency, the fourth, democratisation, still feels like a promise more than a process. It’s something everyone agrees with in principle, but few take seriously in practice. And yet, that fourth “D” is precisely what determines whether the transition will be experienced as an opportunity, or just another top-down transformation that bypasses the people it’s meant to serve.

In a new Opinion, the European Economic and Social Committee explores how to balance between opportunities and risks of energy digitalisation for European consumers. Learn about the benefits of smart grids, AI systems, and user-friendly technology – and the safeguards that are needed.

Dive into the future of urban planning and sustainability with the open-access publication, “Smart and Sustainable Planning for Cities and Regions: Results of SSPCR 2022.” This authoritative compilation, stemming from the international conference held in Bolzano, Italy, in July 2022, provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge research and innovative approaches. In this blog post, we explore the key highlights of this essential resource, from its multidisciplinary insights to its open-access accessibility. Join us in unraveling the intricate web of smart city solutions and sustainable urban planning.