Smart Cities Round Up - 03 MAY 2024

Cities worldwide are accelerating their efforts to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. This transition has been a repeating theme in this week's coverage on SmartCitiesWorld , with recent developments highlighting the commitment of cities to combat climate change and prioritise environmental stewardship.?

Beginning in the US, Austin Energy , in collaboration with the Texas Solar for All Coalition, has secured a significant federal grant of almost $250 million to enhance accessibility to clean and resilient renewable energy for low-income households in the city. As part of a larger initiative spanning Texas, Austin Energy aims to deploy clean solar energy infrastructure to benefit historically disadvantaged communities and medically vulnerable residents. This investment not only promotes energy equity but also accelerates the transition towards a more sustainable energy landscape, helping to position Austin as a leader in renewable energy adoption.

Elsewhere in the United States, the City of Charlotte has unveiled an updated Sustainable Facilities Policy (SFP), signalling a renewed commitment to decarbonisation efforts within municipal infrastructure. A key provision of the revised policy mandates that all new municipal buildings in Charlotte be powered exclusively by electricity, marking a significant departure from traditional reliance on natural gas. Aligned with the city's Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP), this initiative underscores Charlotte's determination to reduce carbon emissions and embrace cleaner energy solutions as part of its broader sustainability agenda.

In Abu Dhabi, Masdar City has unveiled its latest eco-friendly installation, the Solar Tree , in its Eco Plaza. Comprising 16 bi-facial solar panels, the Solar Tree serves as both a functional energy generator and a piece of urban art. Mimicking the design of a natural tree, the installation provides shaded seating while harnessing solar energy to contribute to the Abu Dhabi power grid. The installation exemplifies innovative urban development but also serves as a catalyst for public engagement around sustainable practices, fostering awareness and appreciation of renewable energy.

By leveraging federal funding, implementing progressive policies, and embracing technology, these cities are leading by example in the global effort to combat climate change and build resilient communities. By prioritising cleaner energy, cities are helping pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the long term.

Luke Antoniou , Senior editor, SmartCitiesWorld

Here is a round up of our other News this week:

1. University of York completes research institute solar farm
2. New York City embeds climate budgeting in decision-making
3. How UK scheme is fast-tracking green energy connections
4. City of Raleigh deploys solar movable EV charging units
5. Austin boosts accessibility to clean energy with federal grant
6. Brussels Airport works with IES to develop digital twin
7. Masdar City reveals solar tree installation
8. Sacramento announces new plan to grow the city’s tree canopy
9. MTA reveals Climate Resilience Roadmap
10. Dubai Mangroves initiative unveiled by Urb
11. Pau and Le Mans partner with Keolis to develop mobility networks
12. New municipal buildings in Charlotte to be powered by electricity
13. Transit service aims to improve access across Michigan
14. Cairns works with Itron to modernise water distribution
15. Glasgow refreshes plans to reduce air pollution
16. San Francisco builds on lead in water reuse technologies
17. Abu Dhabi to establish electric air taxi ecosystem
18. Go Ahead digitally transforms bus inspection and maintenance

OPINIONS: Cities Climate Action Summit 2024 – meet the speaker: Yiu-Shing Pang, UK Power Networks