How can neighborhoods become energy positive?
What are the odds of success?
Can this transformation take place even in historic districts — without compromising protected architecture?
These were some of the guiding questions shaping four intense days in Milan and Parma, during the EU Driving Urban Transitions (DUT) Partnership conference series. Members of the JustPEPP project joined researchers, city planners, and industry partners from across Europe to exchange knowledge and accelerate innovation toward climate-neutral cities.
Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange at Politecnico di Milano
The week began with high-energy momentum — both on and off the field. After an inspiring local cultural visit to San Siro, discussions turned to research collaboration.
At Politecnico di Milano – School of Management, our team met with experts including Federico Caniato and Camilla Borsani to explore:
- The role of AI in public procurement
- Smart solutions for urban energy transitions
- Opportunities for future collaboration within EU-funded programs
We also received an engaging tour of the BRIEL AI laboratory, gaining new perspectives on how advanced analytics can support sustainable neighborhood design. Our thanks go to Michela Guida for coordinating these valuable exchanges.
DUT Annual Conference: A Hub of Ideas and Innovation
Tuesday and Wednesday featured the main DUT Annual Conference — a fully packed program of:
- Keynotes
- Interactive workshops
- Poster sessions
- Networking with EU research partners
Representing JustPEPP, we presented our work on justice-centered Positive Energy Planning and engaged new partners interested in social equity in energy transitions.
The atmosphere highlighted a shared urgency: European cities must unlock new, inclusive pathways to energy-positive futures — starting at the neighborhood scale.
Focus on Positive Energy Districts: Parma Field Visit
From Wednesday onward, JustPEPP took part in a targeted meeting with around twenty European Positive Energy District (PED) projects in the DUT ecosystem. The final day led the group to Parma — globally known for prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano, but now also for its ambitious plan to reach climate neutrality by 2030.
There, we witnessed firsthand how PED pilots are being embedded into:
- Urban planning strategies
- Building renovation initiatives
- Local community engagement
The visit demonstrated that even cities with historic cores can pursue energy-positive solutions — without sacrificing cultural heritage.
Moving Forward
A warm thank-you to all organizers, speakers, and fellow participants who contributed to a productive and energizing week. The JustPEPP team returns with fresh insights, stronger collaborations, and renewed motivation to advance just, community-centered, energy-positive transitions in Europe.
