Aachen is a medium sized city in a cross-border region linking Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, with a strong research base, industrial heritage and surrounding peri-urban and rural areas. The broader functional area includes commuter belts, industrial and logistics sites, and cross border connections that tie Aachen to nearby cities and regions.
Key challenges
Climate-neutrality measures need to extend beyond the city boundary into the peri-urban territory, including smaller municipalities that are developing their own strategies but require coordination support.
Renewable energy potential, particularly solar PV, in peri-urban areas is not yet fully mapped or activated, and self-consumption configurations for energy communities need to be optimised.
Data-driven spatial planning tools that incorporate mobility indicators are lacking, limiting the ability of authorities to make evidence-based decisions across the functional area.
Cross-sectoral industrial symbiosis models for climate compensation are at an early stage, with limited structured collaboration between companies and institutions.
What the Replicator will address through ALTHEA
The Aachen Replicator will use ALTHEA’s systemic approaches to strengthen its own cross border and peri-urban climate neutral strategies. It will:
Build a TSL Quality Partnership
Through the creation of a multi-actor committee, aiming to reach 300 members and establish a structured multi-stakeholder body for integrated peri-urban planning.
Develop renewable energy communities
With a target of 20 new large-scale PV systems by the end of 2028 (5 per year), 1 new wind energy project by the end of 2028, and 1 small-area heat supply solution. A dedicated “energy enabler” position will be created to support municipalities and communities in identifying and optimising PV potential and self-consumption configurations.
Deploy a data exchange platform for smart spatial planning
Adding mobility indicators to existing digital infrastructure and improving evidence-based decision-making across the functional area.
Develop cross-sectoral industrial symbiosis models
Engaging 5 companies or institutions per year in schemes that offset 100 tonnes of CO₂ per year, accelerating climate compensation in peri-urban industrial areas.
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