Core Insights - Urban renewal is not merely a physical renovation but a systematic rethinking of urban functions, particularly in the energy sector, which encompasses security, green transformation, and other multiple objectives [1][2][3] Urban Renewal and Energy Infrastructure - The concept of urban renewal has gained traction across various regions, with significant investments planned for upgrading urban infrastructure, including nearly 600,000 kilometers of gas, water, and heating pipelines over the next five years, with an estimated investment exceeding 4 trillion yuan [1][2] - The energy sector is crucial for urban operations, impacting the quality of life and the direction of various industries, necessitating a robust energy supply system that is both affordable and efficient [1][2] Challenges in Urban Energy Systems - Despite an increase in renewable energy capacity, coal and natural gas remain the primary energy sources in many cities, leading to challenges in achieving green and low-carbon goals [2][3] - Urban energy infrastructure faces issues such as outdated systems, safety hazards, and a lack of resilience, which are exacerbated by extreme weather and complex scenarios [2][3] Strategic Directions for Energy Transformation - Accelerating the renovation of energy infrastructure is essential, with a focus on integrating traditional systems with smart scheduling and multi-network convergence to create a visible and manageable energy operation system [3][4] - The integration of green low-carbon principles throughout the urban renewal process is vital, promoting localized renewable energy solutions and transforming energy consumption patterns from high-carbon to low-carbon [3][4] Technological Integration and Policy Support - The future evolution of urban energy systems relies on technological empowerment, with the integration of IoT, big data, and AI being key to enhancing operational efficiency and energy management [3][4] - Policy mechanisms must align with urban renewal efforts, including the incorporation of green energy projects into overall planning and the establishment of a green electricity trading market to foster a low-carbon environment [4]