By Susanne Togeby, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photos: AI-generated images of Aalborg East 2045

Researchers from Aalborg University have mapped out the possibilities for transforming Aalborg East into a Positive Energy District (PED). In a PED, energy consumption must be based entirely on renewable energy, and the district as a whole should produce more energy over the course of a year than it uses. Kristian Olesen, Associate Professor at Aalborg University and the head of the research project FLEXPOSTS, explains:

"We propose establishing Aalborg East as a PED demonstration area with the ambition of transforming it into a fully operational PED by 2045. This way, Aalborg can become a key player in Denmark's national transition toward climate neutrality and 100 percent renewable energy."

The researchers point out that Aalborg East already has several of the necessary elements to become a PED: the disctrict heating network already supplies more heat than is consumed locally, and the area has extensive experience with energy retrofitting existing buildings. In addition, there are committed companies investing in green energy and available space for local energy production, such as solar panels on industrial buildings.

Aalborg East can cover 20% of its own electricity needs

The researchers identify a range of technologies that could help turn Aalborg East into a Positive Energy District, including thermal storage, heat pumps, waste heat recovery from industries, energy from waste incineration, and local wind and solar power.

According to Kristian Olesen, the main challenge will be to increase local electricity production, as the district is expected to be able to cover only 20% of its own electricity demand in 2045. Therefore, Aalborg East cannot function as a self-sufficient island but must be an active part of the broader energy system. This means that the district should supply green energy to other areas when there is a surplus and draw energy from outside when needed. The researchers also emphasise the need for a broader national effort:

"Ensuring sustainable energy solutions for energy-intensive industries should be a national priority. It is not crucial to strictly adhere to the PED concept in mixed areas like Aalborg East, which include both housing and industry. Instead, the production of e-fuels and hydrogen for future industrial and transport needs should take place where it makes the most sense," says Kristian Olesen.

Translated by Julie Christiansen