The only way to reach the objectives of reducing CO2 emissions by 55% by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050 is to encourage a decarbonisation that is very specific to the different contexts across Europe. The good news is that the necessary technologies for a fast transition are here, but the affordable housing sector might need more support.<\/p>\n
The district-level approach is the best option for a just energy transition. Not only does it allow important cost reductions, achievable through economies of scale, industrialisation, bulk logistics, etc., but it also enables the housing providers and developers to engage with the community, push for a human-centred renovation and add a sense of ownership and belonging to their homes and neighbourhoods.<\/p>\n
\u2018Lighthouse districts\u2019, from the Affordable Housing Initiative, represent models of integrated approaches involving the use of smart, energy-efficient solutions<\/a>, people-centred business models, and co-creation practices with the residents at the neighbourhood level and engaging several disciplines \u2013 creative, green, digital, and mobility.<\/p>\n
One of these projects is drOp<\/a>, aiming to come up with a district renovation methodology, addressing the needs of social housing from Spain, Italy and Estonia and transforms these neighbourhoods into smart and inclusive ones.<\/p>\n
The Consortium partners have as a priority to bring all these good practices forward. They have put together a handbook of inspiring examples. Delivering Affordable \u2018Lighthouse Districts\u2019 in Europe<\/a> aims to encourage to explore the limits of what is possible, create a new appetite to renovate better, and tap into a new level of ambition.<\/p>\n
While examples of what has already been done are a valuable resource, it has also been important to create a set of guidelines<\/a> that make the task of an inclusive energy efficient district level renovation seem approachable. Planned to be published at the end of the project, they will focus on different aspects, including temporary accommodation for tenants during the renovation period or ensuring cost-neutrality for residents after the renovation operation.<\/p>\n
The Renovation Helpdesk<\/a> is another tool of the project, composed of experts who have the experience of carrying out a lighthouse district. They have volunteered to help other project leaders who are just starting the process of renovating their stock and offering affordable, safe, and suitable housing for their residents.<\/p>\n
After two years, the capacity-building programme is approaching its finish line, an occasion that will be marked with the \u2018Launching 100 lighthouse districts<\/a>\u2019 conference at the European Committee of the Regions on February 21, 2024.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"