The oPEN Lab project has released a comprehensive EU report analysing the environmental impact of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) and proposing a standardized Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework to enhance sustainability. The report underscores the importance of LCA in evaluating the environmental footprint of PEDs and ensuring their long-term viability.
The document is structured into five key sections, beginning with an introduction to the context and objectives of the study. A dedicated section explains the fundamentals of LCA, outlining the assessment process and key factors to consider. The report then explores how LCA can be integrated into PED design, examining existing methodologies at various levels—from materials and buildings to entire districts. The study also assesses how stakeholders can be better supported in making environmentally informed decisions through labeling systems and strategy lists.
A major contribution of the report is the development of a common LCA framework and protocol, which will be tested across the three oPEN Lab Living Labs. This standardized approach aims to facilitate comparability between different PED implementations and contribute to future European standards for sustainable urban planning.
The report highlights the importance of adapting LCA methodologies to keep pace with the rapid transition in urban energy systems, ensuring alignment with Europe’s climate-neutral objectives. By establishing a structured and replicable LCA framework, the oPEN Lab project aims to support cities in making informed, sustainable choices for PED development and contribute to the broader goal of climate resilience.
Read the full report: Integration of life cycle perspective in PED design
