A reduction in the emissions arising from urban activities demands a combination of energy efficiency measures and a move away from fossil fuel sources. Progress may be enabled by the use of advanced materials and control systems and the adoption, where possible, of renewable energy conversion technologies. A major challenge is the incorporation of such systems in a manner which preserves the architectural heritage of the district. This paper describes the modelling approach used when assessing the renewable energy systems to be deployed within a demonstration project in Glasgow, UK.