The Netherlands is currently undergoing an energy transition towards sustainable and renewable sources, aiming to eliminate CO2 emissions by 2050. This report focuses on the transition community of sustainable settlers, young people (25–45) who strive to lead a more sustainable l
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The Netherlands is currently undergoing an energy transition towards sustainable and renewable sources, aiming to eliminate CO2 emissions by 2050. This report focuses on the transition community of sustainable settlers, young people (25–45) who strive to lead a more sustainable lifestyle, yet often feel powerless to effect change. In addition to the energy transition, this group is strongly affected by the national housing shortage. This shortage is particularly pressing in Utrecht, where rapidly rising housing prices make it increasingly difficult for this community to find affordable housing. By combining bottom-up and top-down approaches, a vision is developed for this community of the future within the province of Utrecht. Using microgrids as a key energy theme, the energy transition is accelerated by introducing decentralized energy systems in urban areas, promoting sustainable energy generation while reducing stress on the national grid. This report analyses the current state of Utrecht to define a vision across four key themes from the perspective of sustainable settlers: housing, work, mobility, and energy. These individual visions may present conflicting interests. However, their integration leads to a cohesive overall vision. A strategic plan is formulated based on this vision, using stakeholder analysis to identify and map various interests. A set of targeted actions is outlined to create a realistic future scenario for the province. These actions are tailored to different types of settlements and can originate from either top-down or bottom-up initiatives. They are strategically deployed to shape a long-term strategy for Utrecht. This results in a forward-thinking strategy where spatial planning aligns with sustainable energy, affordable living, and accessible transport. The strategy distinguishes between three settlement types: city center, suburb, and peri-urban, each with specific needs, ensuring a balanced and inclusive approach. Together, these layers form a coherent vision for a more resilient and sustainable province of Utrecht.