Integrating Solar Energy in Urban Development: Strategies for Sustainable and Smart Cities

Abstract

The increasing pace of urbanization has intensified the global demand for clean and decentralized energy systems, placing solar energy at the forefront of sustainable urban transitions. While prior studies have separately explored photovoltaic (PV) technologies, urban form, or energy policy frameworks, few have synthesized these dimensions into an integrated roadmap for solar adoption in smart cities. This study addresses that gap by introducing the policy–technology–morphology nexus (PTMN), a novel conceptual model developed through the cross-analysis of 120 peer-reviewed studies and urban case implementations. The PTMN framework unifies three essential pillars: policy instruments (e.g., feed-in tariffs, net metering), enabling technologies (e.g., AI-based solar mapping, smart grids, battery optimization), and urban morphological variables (e.g., building density, orientation, and shading).Through comparative tables and geospatial insights, the review reveals that morphology-sensitive design, when coupled with intelligent technologies and regulatory incentives, can enhance solar efficiency by up to 40% in selected cities such as Geneva, Stonehaven, and Shenzhen. Methodologically, the study integrates GIS-based assessments, deep learning approaches, and system-level classification typologies to map deployment scales, performance gaps, and policy relevance. Findings highlight the critical role of digital twins and smart storage integration in enabling equitable and scalable solar transitions. Limitations include the reliance on location-specific data and the absence of multicity dynamic simulations. Future research should focus on enhancing AI-driven predictive modeling for solar energy optimization, developing novel energy storage technologies, and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations among policymakers, engineers, and urban planners.