Capezzuto (Association of Energy Managers): The Role of the Twin Transition in Urban Areas
The Association of Energy Managers (AEM) is a technical-scientific association that brings together professionals from the energy and plant engineering sector. Its goal is to promote and develop the proper management of energy resources, foster technological innovations, enhance energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources, as well as advocate for sustainable energy practices. Additionally, AEM is committed to promoting sustainable development, offering training and professional updates, and safeguarding the interests of its members.
As a scientific partner of SMART BUILDING EXPO 2025, AEM plays a key role in discussions on the twin transition in urban areas. We spoke with Pasquale Capezzuto, Chairman of the UNI 058 Technical Commission “Sustainable Cities, Communities, and Infrastructures”, to explore this topic further:
**”The quality of life in cities is closely linked to how local administrators manage natural resources and integrate innovation into governance. The smart, resilient, and sustainable city model, aligned with the 17 goals of the 2030 Agenda, aims to ensure a high quality of life for citizens.
To achieve this transformation, urban governance must integrate multiple aspects of city life—transportation, energy, waste management, and public safety—into a connected and intelligent network. This approach turns urban infrastructures into smart, resilient, and sustainable systems, capable of delivering innovative public services while optimizing resource use.
By doing so, cities can tackle pressing challenges such as pollution, unsustainable resource consumption, and climate change more effectively, fostering greater citizen engagement and participation.”**
The Key Drivers of Transformation
The ongoing transformation is driven by advanced digital technologies, such as IoT (Internet of Things), City Digital Twins, BIM, 5G, BMS, BEMS, BACS, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). In parallel, nature-based solutions, including green roofs, vertical gardens, and sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDs), align with the twin transition outlined in the Green Deal. These solutions enable data-driven decision-making, enhance urban well-being, and improve public health.
Additionally, technical standards developed by UNI 058, CEN 465, and ISO 268 provide a methodological framework for urban governance to successfully implement these initiatives.
A New Vision for Our Cities
The concept of a new urbanism, aimed at enhancing urban quality of life, sustainability, efficient resource use, and attractiveness, finds its ideal model in sustainable cities. By adopting this paradigm, cities can become more livable, resilient, and responsive to the needs of their citizens. Ultimately, this approach fosters a sustainable and inclusive urban environment for future generations.