# Energy Systems ### By Dr. Daniele Salvatore Schiera contributors: Antti Knutas (LUT University), Majad Qureshi ( LUT University) interviewee: Dr. Daniele Salvatore Schiera (POLITO) data sources : "Transcript from 'Tips for PED Podcasts on Energy Systems'" date : 4 Nov 2025 ## Overview > Energy systems in the context of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) refer to integrated networks of energy production, storage, distribution, and consumption designed to operate efficiently and sustainably at the local level. Modern energy systems emphasize the integration of different energy carriers, such as electricity, heat, and cooling and the coupling of infrastructure with end-user behavior. This approach enables synergies between systems, allowing districts to balance local energy production and consumption, reduce reliance on main grids, and improve overall energy efficiency. Key components include renewable energy sources, storage solutions (e.g., batteries and thermal storage), and digitalized control systems that enable smart management and interoperability. The goal is to create cyber-physical infrastructures that are not only technologically advanced but also socially inclusive, engaging citizens in energy decisions and promoting behavioral changes toward energy reduction. This holistic integration supports climate neutrality by reducing emissions and enhancing the self-sufficiency of urban districts. ## Podcast on Energy Systems  Dr. Daniele Schiera is from the Polytechnic University of Turin. A researcher at the Department of Energy with a focus on modeling and simulation of integrated energy systems.In this podcast he is interviewed by Prof. Antti Knutas from LUT. <iframe src="https://1drv.ms/v/s!AhfS9V57asz5izftaNNNqzDuXpQO?embed=1" width="320" height="320" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen></iframe> ## Connection to Energy Transition Energy systems are the backbone of Positive Energy Districts, enabling the shift from centralized, fossil-based energy models to decentralized, renewable, and user-responsive networks. In PEDs, integrated energy systems allow for the local balancing of supply and demand, leveraging distributed generation, storage, and smart grid technologies to maximize sustainability and resilience. This approach is critical for the broader energy transition, as it addresses urban energy challenges through sector coupling—linking energy with transport, building management, and digital infrastructure. By focusing on holistic, transdisciplinary solutions, energy systems in PEDs not only improve technical efficiency but also foster citizen engagement, market innovation, and policy alignment toward climate-neutral cities. ## Energy System as Technology Modern energy systems function as integrated, smart technologies that combine physical infrastructure—such as renewable generation, storage units, and distribution networks—with digital and cyber-physical layers for monitoring, control, and optimization. These systems rely on modeling, simulation, and interoperability platforms to connect different energy vectors (e.g., electricity, heat) and end‑user technologies, enabling real‑time balancing and efficient resource use within districts. The technological core lies in digitalization, which allows for intelligent management, data‑driven decision‑making, and seamless interaction between components, from PV panels and batteries to thermal storage and grid interfaces. ## Impact of Energy Systems Integrated energy systems significantly enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of urban districts. By enabling local balancing of energy production and consumption—through renewables, storage, and smart controls—they reduce dependence on central grids, lower energy losses, and help decrease greenhouse gas emissions. This technical integration directly supports the transition toward climate‑neutral neighborhoods, a key goal of Positive Energy Districts. Beyond technical gains, these systems also create social and behavioral impacts. They empower citizens to engage in energy choices, raising awareness and encouraging more conscious consumption. When users participate in demand‑side management or benefit from local energy sharing, overall district efficiency improves not only through technology but through collective behavioral change. Thus, the impact extends from infrastructure optimization to fostering a culture of sustainability and shared responsibility among residents. ## Future of Energy Systems Looking ahead, energy systems are expected to evolve toward even deeper integration—both physically and digitally—across infrastructure, markets, and user domains. In the next 10–15 years, wider deployment of distributed energy resources (e.g., rooftop PV, batteries) and advanced digital platforms will make systems more interoperable, scalable, and user‑centric. The vision includes holistic, transdisciplinary approaches that blend engineering with social sciences, ensuring that future systems are not only technologically smart but also socially inclusive and aligned with broader sustainability goals, ultimately supporting self‑sufficient, climate‑neutral urban districts. ## Summary The discussion underscores that modern energy systems are fundamental to realizing Positive Energy Districts (PEDs). These systems are characterized by the integration of physical infrastructure—such as renewables, storage, and grids—with digital controls and data platforms. This integration creates synergies between different energy carriers, enabling local balancing of supply and demand, reducing reliance on central networks, and improving overall efficiency and emissions. Beyond the technology itself, a core theme is the need for a holistic and transdisciplinary approach. Effective energy systems must also engage citizens, incorporate behavioral insights, and consider broader urban domains like transportation to achieve true sustainability and climate neutrality. In summary, the podcast transcript highlights energy systems as the vital, enabling backbone of Positive Energy Districts. The path forward requires moving beyond purely technical solutions toward cyber-physical and socially integrated networks. Future development will depend on deeper digitalization, interoperable infrastructures, and a strong focus on user awareness and participation. Ultimately, the goal is to create resilient, self-sufficient urban districts that are not only energy-efficient but also empower their communities, driving a comprehensive transition toward a sustainable and climate-neutral future. ## Further reading Follow up our [TIPS4PED project site and news](https://tips4ped.eu/) to learn more. --- *Source: Adapted from the "Tips for Ped" podcast series, featuring insights from Dr. Daniele Salvatore Schiera, from POLITO.* ---