Kevin Nieto Pedraza is a Doctoral Candidate at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Originally from Mexico, he holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and a master’s degree in management of the Built Environment from Politecnico di Milano. He is part of the POTENT MSCA Doctoral Network and conducts his research under the supervision of Professor Niki Gaitani (NTNU) and Professor Henrik Madsen (DTU). His work is carried out in close collaboration with Trondheim Port and DTU. Kevin’s academic and professional experience centers on digitalization with a strong interest in applying data-driven tools for informed decision-making.
Digital technologies for insights into urban energy dynamics and port–city interactions.
This project focuses on developing a Digital Twin framework to analyze the energy interactions between ports and cities. Emphasizing electricity and thermal exchanges, the research integrates physics-based urban modelling, grey-box approaches, and data-driven methods to produce detailed representations of port–city energy dynamics.
The Digital Twin will combine simulation outputs, operational data, and scenario-based forecasting to quantify energy demand, flexibility potential, and associated emissions. The project investigates how ports can operate as energy transition hubs that support urban decarbonization.
The work aligns with POTENT’s mission of positioning European ports as key actors in the energy transition. It highlights how digital tools such as urban building energy modelling (UBEM), dynamic simulation environments, and advanced analytics can strengthen evidence-based decision-making for port authorities, municipalities, and local stakeholders. Expected outcomes include a deeper understanding of port–city energy flows and practical guidance for developing more sustainable, flexible, and integrated energy strategies.