Geomatics as Support for Energy Applications

Semantic 3D city models play globally an increasing role as hubs of harmonised and integrated information that include both spatial and non-spatial data. For certain applications, the geo-spatial dimension plays a fundamental role. In bottom-up approaches, for example, several data regarding buildings are used and processed to further compute meaningful characteristics and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) about the building stock. Such data can be then further aggregated up to the district or city level and so on.

Depending on the specific application, the spatial dimension can play an important role. A simple list of examples could be: the computation of the volume of complex buildings, the computation of shared walls between adjacent buildings, the estimation of the solar irradiance on the roof surfaces or on the building façades. In such cases, 3D data is needed, as the usual 2D data that may not suffice.

The course will focus on the use of 3D city models, based on the international standard CityGML, as support for energy-related applications in the framework of the energy transition. A non-exhaustive list of possible applications is:

- Bottom-up approaches for estimation of energy performance of buildings

- Coupling of 3D city models with specific simulation tools

- Assessment of photovoltaic potential at urban scale

- Integration with supply networks (e.g. gas, district heating, etc.)

- Data modelling, definition and testing of (energy-related) data standards.

The course has both a theoretical and a practical part. Every year, a specific topic will be selected and treated during the course. Every year, depending on the selected topic, the necessary theoretical background will be provided during lectures.