ARİF KÜNAR

Empowering Urban Energy Transformation: Municipal Energy Desks Combating Energy Poverty and the Path to Resource-Efficient Buildings by 2050

Abstract

This article developed by the project scope “EU4 Energy Transition: Covenant of Mayors in the Western Balkans and Türkiye” and implemented by Lithuanian Central Project Management Agency in Türkiye. This Multi Donor Action is jointly co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. Energy poverty presents a significant challenge in urban environments, affecting the health, finances, and social equality of vulnerable populations. This paper explores the initiatives undertaken by the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) to address energy poverty, focusing on the proposal for the creation of Municipal Energy Desks (BEM). These desks aim to provide information, technical support, and project management services to households seeking energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy adoption. The paper outlines the project proposal, including the establishment of “Alo Energy Advisory Desk” (AEDM) and the training of personnel for effective desk operations. Additionally, it discusses the operational framework, community engagement strategies, and potential impacts on vulnerable households. Through a collaborative ap-proach involving stakeholders, volunteers, and academic institutions, the paper seeks to contribute to the alleviation of energy poverty in urban areas and pave the way for sustainable energy transitions.

Biography

Arif Künar graduated from METU as an Electrical and Electronics Engineer. He has been involved in many domestic/foreign industrial-building energy efficiency studies and applications and “green building” studies. Right now; He takes part in EU projects as an expert-consultant-consultant in energy efficiency, green OIZ and Green SME mentorship, ESCO-EPC applications, energy monitoring and management, renewable energy, SECAP, YEVDES, KABEV and smart-digital city projects in the public and private sectors.

Currently, as the founder, VEN ESCO Bina Energy Management Consultancy San. and Tic. Inc. In the company; He continues to serve as the Founding General Manager. He is a founding member of EYODER and EDİDER, and a member of the Advisory Council of EMO, TTMD, SHURA Energy Transition Center.