Energy Star Ratings for Neighbourhoods

Despite the introduction of new land use policies and vehicle technologies, dramatic reductions in urban transport energy dependence are not yet being observed. It is proposed that stricter land use regulations coupled with new GIS tools are required that specifically tackle the energy dependence issue. The objective of this book is to showcase a GIS tool that could be used within an urban development framework to dramatically reduce urban transport energy dependence. The tool introduces a simplified manner of representing existing or planned neighbourhood areas in an "Energy Star Rating" format which is simple for decision makers to understand. The tool specifys a maximum allowable energy dependency limit for land use modifications in existing urban areas and new developments. This book is therefore designed for urban planners, policy makers and decision makers of cities under expansion and redevelopment.