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Making cities sustainable through photovoltaics and energy efficiency measures

Solar panels on roof
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Making cities sustainable through photovoltaics and energy efficiency measures

Rooftop photovoltaics combined with energy efficiency measures and new technology are key to achieving net-zero energy buildings and thus sustainable cities.
Editorial Team

Although the adoption of rooftop solar panels is crucial for the energy transition, the effectiveness of rooftop photovoltaics (RTPV) still varies worldwide. A collaborative study involving the JRC and global research institutions highlights the significant potential of this technology in achieving net-zero energy buildings across various climates and insulation levels. Particularly effective for low-rise structures in moderate to warm climates, RTPVs can counter extreme climate challenges when combined with energy efficiency measures and innovative technologies, extending to high-rise constructions. By enhancing thermal insulation and leveraging emerging technologies, RTPVs can significantly reduce non-renewable energy consumption and carbon emissions. 

Scaling up RTPV deployment not only offers direct social and environmental benefits but also promotes city decarbonisation and energy independence. This meta-analysis underscores the importance of integrating RTPVs into sustainable urban frameworks for net-zero energy neighbourhoods worldwide.

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Vasileios Kapsalis, Carmen Maduta, Nikolaos Skandalos, Meng Wang, Sushant Suresh Bhuvad, Delia D'Agostino, Tao Ma, Uday Raj, Danny Parker, Jinqing Peng, Dimitris Karamanis