PLANNING FOR SOLAR SMART CITIES M. Amado 1 ; F. Poggi 2 1: Civil Engineering Department, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus da Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal. ma@fct.unl.pt 2: GEOTPU - Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus da Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal. f.poggi@fct.unl.pt ABSTRACT In order to respond to the growing urbanization process and subsequent energy demand, methodological approaches which implement alternative urban models are required to support the indispensable change towards more energy efficient cities. This paper discusses the solar energy potential of built environments and explores how urban planning can contribute to converting existing cities into Solar Smart Cities. To support this study, a performance-based analysis was done on an existing urban area taking into account the solar potential of roofs and the optimization of power distribution networks across the city neighbourhood. Using GIS and dynamic simulation software, urban morphological parameters and land use patterns have been identified and characterized to support the urban planning process. Statistical data of energy consumption at the neighbourhood level were used to estimate peak to off-peak periods taking into account current uses of buildings and their duration, frequency and temporal distribution during the day. This study shows the positive contribution that solar energy can offer at building block level and how urban planning and energy management supported by a solar smart grid can be important tools to reach the energy balance across a whole city. Keywords: Solar Smart City, photovoltaic systems, GIS, urban planning, smart grids INTRODUCTION What are the determining factors and parameters that would turn an existing city into a Solar Smart City? This paper develops an approach that could be considered as a starting point for further discussions and research contributing to the global transition to renewable energy and more energy efficient cities. Around 75% of global energy consumption occurs in cities and 80% of greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming comes from cities [1]. These trends cannot continue along the same path and implementation of alternative urban models is required to support the indispensable change towards more energy efficient cities. The Kyoto Protocol objectives to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and, more recently, the emerging constraints on energy supply have increased the importance given to energy efficiency policies [2]. Furthermore with 40% of global energy consumption consumed in buildings [3] it is evident that the first step has to focus on actions to improve energy performances and efficiency in both new and existing buildings. Dealing with issues of energy security, access and demand, the generation of renewable energy within the city boundaries constitutes a substantial resource to be correlated with efficiency and conservation measures. CISBAT 2013 - September 4-6, 2013 - Lausanne, Switzerland 1017