SMART RURAL: a model for planning net-zero energy balance at municipal level

Given the current cause-effect relationships between the burning of fossil fuels and environmental, social and economic problems, the model of development for society's future requires transition pathways for a low carbon energy system. Here, the recognition of a smart dimension of rural areas associated with sustainable energy development, while still nascent, is both relevant and suggestive. The paper presents SMART RURAL, a model that revolves around a “think smart-plan local-act rural” approach, promoting a strong engagement with renewable energy, energy efficiency and smart grid toward net-zero energy balance at the municipal level.