Research Paper

Working Paper on The Development of Energy Smart Communities in the APEC Region

October 1, 2014

Current Themes

Climate Change & Resilience State & Local Finance

Working Paper on The Development of Energy Smart Communities in the APEC Region

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Overview

This research paper by Penn IUR, sponsored by the Taiwan National Development Council, evaluates the growth of low-carbon and energy-smart communities in the APEC region. The study reviews efforts by APEC economies to create conditions for energy conservation at sub-national and local levels. It contextualizes each economy's efforts in terms of their economic conditions, fuel mix, and other factors, presenting case studies of energy-conserving municipalities within these economies.

Key Message

Effective development of low-carbon model towns in the APEC region relies on overcoming barriers related to funding, monitoring, capacity, and policy integration. The study highlights that economies with cohesive national and subnational policies achieve higher levels of energy-smart community deployment and better performance verification. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, APEC economies can enhance their efforts towards sustainable urban development and contribute significantly to global energy conservation goals.