A new podcast series, Are Energy Positive Futures Possible?, is diving into one of Europe’s most promising approaches to sustainable urban transformation: Positive Energy Districts (PEDs).
The series explores how PEDs—urban areas that produce more energy than they consume—can help cities move toward a more sustainable, just, and energy-resilient future. Through expert interviews and real-world examples, the podcast goes beyond the technical aspects of energy systems to focus strongly on the social, economic, and governance dimensions of Positive Energy Districts.
At its core, the podcast highlights how PEDs can:
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Reduce energy costs
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Tackle energy poverty
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Strengthen local economies
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Improve overall quality of life
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Empower citizens and local stakeholders
Episode 1: Positive Energy Districts Fundamentals
The first episode, “Positive Energy Districts Fundamentals,” sets the stage by unpacking what PEDs are, how the concept has evolved, and why flexibility and citizen involvement are key to their success.
The episode features:
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Christoph Gollner, Coordinator for the Positive Energy Districts Transition Pathway of the Driving Urban Transitions Partnership and representative of JPI Urban Europe
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Sophie Marie Ertelt, researcher and senior lecturer at Örebro University.
The discussion is moderated by Dimitra Drakaki, Project and Communications Manager at Climate Alliance. Together, they explore the history of Positive Energy Districts, clarify how the term is defined and applied across Europe, and examine the crucial role of citizens, municipalities, and other stakeholders in shaping energy-positive futures.
Where to listen
All episodes of Are Energy Positive Futures Possible? are available on the Just Pepp website, and can also be streamed on Spotify. To stay up to date with future episodes, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the channel.
