On 2 June 2026, representatives of Czech municipalities, metropolitan areas and European organisations gathered at the URBIS Smart Cities Fair in Brno for the Czech Cities Alliance Network (CAN) meeting, organised within the framework of the ASCEND project. The event attracted 25 participants from Czech municipalities, demonstrating a growing interest in climate-neutral urban development and innovative approaches to the energy transition.
The session focused on one of the key challenges facing cities today: how to simultaneously address affordable housing, rising energy costs and the transition to climate neutrality. Participants heard inspiring examples from Prague and Munich on the development of Positive Clean Energy Districts, showcasing how urban districts can combine energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, citizen participation and sustainable urban planning.
The discussion highlighted both the opportunities and practical barriers cities encounter when implementing innovative climate projects. Participants exchanged views on the support needed to scale up PCED development and accelerate the delivery of climate-neutral neighbourhoods.
The meeting also introduced the support available through NetZeroCities, the EU Mission platform helping cities accelerate their journey towards climate neutrality through peer learning, expert guidance, networking and access to innovative solutions. Particular attention was given to the newly established Czech Community of Practice, coordinated by the Czech Association of Metropolitan Areas and Agglomerations (SO MOA) since April 2026, and its possible synergies with ASCEND Cities Alliance Network.
Looking ahead, ASCEND will intensify its cooperation with NetZeroCities to strengthen the collaboration between cities and key stakeholders at national level, in Czech Republic as well as in the other countries covered by ASCEND.
