Positive energy districts and energy communities: how living labs create value

Journal article, 2025

Urban living labs (ULLs) are experimental governance mechanisms accelerating sustainability transitions in the built environment, yet their governance implications and systemic impact are often under-examined. A comparative analysis of six ULLs is presented with a focus on positive energy districts (PEDs) and energy communities (ECs) in Austria, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands. Stakeholder configurations, governance models and value creation processes are analysed using structured case documentation and a multitheoretical lens combining the multi-level perspective (MLP),
ULL frameworks, innovation ecosystem theory and the Cambridge Value Mapping Tool (CVMT). Substantial variation is revealed in governance, ranging from centralised,municipality-led models to distributed, cooperative or academic leadership. Mapping stakeholder networks across MLP levels uncovers critical tensions between regime incumbents and niche actors. CVMT analysis demonstrates that value creation is multidimensional (economic, environmental, social) but often uneven, with missed or destroyed value linked to governance misalignment or limited stakeholder engagement.
It is argued that ULLs function as infrastructures for transition governance, not merely technical testbeds. Their success relies on their capacity to align multi-actor systems, mediate institutional frictions and co-produce shared value. Findings offer actionable insights for designing ULLs that are technically effective and socially embedded for just and sustainable urban energy transitions.