Handout Serious Game
Urban Management
Municipality of Examplia
1. General
The overall goal of the municipal government is to improve the overall quality of life in the city of
Examplia in a sustainable way. There is a demand for new (social) housing in Examplia and to meet
this demand the municipality is looking for co-operation with the local Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome. The municipal government also wants to work together with energy and water
companies in order to make optimum use of local resources and available space. The city has asked
the water company Watera to investigate the quantity and quality of strategic groundwater
resources. The municipality hopes to stimulate innovative plans for sustainable use of space both in
terms of land development as well as underground planning. The city of Examplia reserved a budget
of 2.5 million euros to (co-)finance sustainable developments.
2. Objectives
The goals of the municipality have been translated into different indicators:
People: The municipality aims for a maximum score for quality of life in the city (100%).
Planet: The municipality aims for a maximum score for sustainability in the city (100%).
Housing: The municipality wants to realize 1.050 Housing Units (100%).
Energy and water: The municipality wants to ensure sufficient provision of energy and water (100%).
A successful score co-operation with external partners is needed to implement different urban
projects.
3. Possible measures by the municipality
In order to influence urban development the municipal government of Examplia can take the
following measures:
 Determining or changing land use plans.
 Developing guidelines and policies for dealing with archaeological discoveries.
 Developing guidelines and policies for dealing with soil contamination.
 Developing parks and subway stations to improve sustainability and quality of life in the city.
 Developing commercial areas (shopping/business districts) to generate investment funds through
land development.
4. Effects of measures
Measures that will be taken by the different stakeholders have an impact on the development of the
city. The effects will be shown through scores on People, Planet, Energy, Water and Housing. Each
stakeholder will also see the impact of the chosen measures on his or her own budget/profit.
5. Development Layers
During the game, measures can be taken for different soil layers within the available plots. Certain
measures can influence other measures in the same plot. There are also measures that can only take
effect if they are combined with measures by other players or in other soil layers. During the game
the following soil layers will be taken into consideration:
Layer 1:
Above ground
Layer 2:
Topsoil
Layer 3:
Civil construction layer
Layer 4:
Aquifer zone
Layer 5:
Deep subsurface
Soil layer 1: The space on and above ground level
This layer considers land development on and above ground level.
Developments can take place within the zoning regulations of the
plot. These developments can be for example: real estate
development, parks, roads, parking, energy plants, etc.
Soil layer 2: The topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
This layer concerns developments up to 5 meters below the surface.
This layer can be used for cables and pipelines. The shallow surface
can also contain tree roots.
Soil layer 3: The civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
This layer describes the layer between 5 and 50 meters below
ground level. This layer contains most of the foundations for real
estate development but can also contain other civil engineering
works like underground parking, subway tunnels and stations.
Soil layer 4: The aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
This layer contains the groundwater aquifer 50 to 500 meters below
the ground. An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing
permeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, or silt)
from which groundwater can be extracted using a waterwell. This
layer also partly determines the stability and carrying power (natural
foundation) of the surface.
Soil layer 5: The deep subsurface (500 to 2500 m. below ground
level)
This layer is the deepest layer for underground development. This
layer can contain mineral resources and fossil fuels.
6. Overview and Properties Map
The map shows the overall layout of the city of Examplia and the different possible development
plots. In total 12 plots of approximately 100 m2 are eligible for developments and measures for the
different players in the game.
In the table below the current situation of the plots is described:
Plot
Zoning
plan
Owner
Existing
buildings
Topsoil
Civil
Aquifer
Constructions zone
1
Industry
Watera Water company
Office
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
2
Green Area
3
Housing
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
4
Green Area
City park
Roots
5
Industry
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Watera Water company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Archaeological
find
Pollution
6
Industry
Noxxo Energy company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
7
Leisure
8
Green Area
9
Housing
10
Housing
11
Industry
12
Industry
Archaeological
find
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Noxxo Energy company
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
Textile Factory Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
Pollution
Pollution
7. Soil Composition Map
The municipality has examined the soil composition of the city and presented the soil
composition map to the public. This information is useful for the municipality and its partners to
be able to determine which kind of foundations are necessary to develop real estate projects.
 Sand Soil. This soil has a high natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments
cheaper foundation methods can be applied.
 Clay Soil. This soil has a low natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments strong
foundations are needed.
8. List of measures Municipality of Examplia
8.1 Possible measures above ground level
City Park
Developing a city park improves the quality of
life by adding green to the city. Besides this, the
city park offers recreational space for the
inhabitants and visitors of the city.
Costs: € 250.000,People: +7%
Planet: +6%
Developing a small forest or natural area adds
green to the city and provides space for nature
development.
Costs: € 100.000,People: +5%
Planet: +9%
City agriculture allows inhabitants to grow fruit
and vegetables in the city. It stimulates social
cohesion and brings the city dwellers closer to
nature.
Costs: € 150.000,People: +6%
Planet: +8%
A city playground is a popular hangout for
children and improves the attractiveness of a
neighbourhood, especially for families.
Costs: € 200.000,People: +7%
Planet: +2%
A sports or activities area is a popular hangout
for teenagers and improves the attractiveness
of a neighbourhood. These types of playground
have minimal or no green in comparison to
playgrounds, parks or natural areas.
Costs: € 150.000,People: +7%
Planet: -2%
Natural Area
City Agriculture
City Playgrounds
Sports and Activities Area
Small Shopping Centre
A shopping centre attracts visitors to the area
and provides for jobs and business activities.
Revenue: € 150.000,People: +5%
Planet: -1%
Energy use:
80 MWh per year
Water use:
3
1.200 m per year
A large, exclusive shopping centre attracts lots
of people and provides jobs and business
activities. The shopping centre offers a large
revenue and therefore high land value. Because
of the size of the building and the number of
visitors it has a bigger (negative) effect on the
environment (Planet).
Revenue: € 550.000,People: +7%
Planet: -5%
Energy use:
120 MWh per year
Water use:
3
1.500 m per year
Sustainable shopping centres use less energy
and water. Building materials used are also
more sustainable. Because of the height of the
building costs the profits and land value of the
development are lower in comparison to
regular shopping centres.
Revenue: € 50.000,People: +5%
Planet: +1%
Energy use:
40 MWh per year
Water use:
3
600 m per year
Large, Exclusive Shopping Centre
Sustainable Shopping Centre
8.2 Possible measures in the topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
Space for Nature
To be able to develop a park, forests or city
agriculture, space for natural development is
needed in the topsoil. This means that there is
no room for cables and pipelines or other
constructions in this soil layer within the plot.
Costs: € 50.000,Planet: +2%
8.3 Possible measures in the civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
Underground Subway Station
Improved accessibility through a subway
station and connection is highly appreciated by
inhabitants. The costs of construction are huge.
This subway station can also be used as a
strong foundation for new real estate
developments above ground level.
Costs: € 1.500.000,People: +18%
Planet: -2%
Energy use:
15 MWh per year
Water use:
3
600 m per year
Underground Shopping Centre
A shopping centre attracts visitors to the area
and provides for jobs and business activities.
This shopping center can also be used as strong
foundation for new real estate developments
above ground level.
Sustainable Underground Shopping Centre
Sustainable shopping centres use less energy
and water. Building materials used are also
more sustainable.
This shopping centre can also be used as strong
foundation for new real estate developments
above ground level.
Revenue: € 250.000,People: +5%
Planet: -2%
Energy use:
80 MWh per year
Water use:
3
1.200 m per year
Revenue: € 100.000,People: +5%
Planet: +1%
Energy use:
50 MWh per year
Water use:
3
900 m per year
Strong foundation
Strong foundations are needed for developing
real estate on clay ground.
Costs: € 150.000,-
Minimal foundation can be used to build real
estate on top of sand soil. This type of
foundation is cheaper than strong foundation.
Costs: € 50.000,-
Piped strong foundation contains pipe sleeves
to allow for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 200.000,-
Piped minimal foundation contains pipe sleeves
to allow for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 100.000,-
Minimal foundation
Piped strong foundation
Piped minimal foundation
9. Archaeological find
The municipality can deal with archaeological finds in different ways. By law the municipality has to
deal with archaeological finds below ground level. When making spatial plans the archaeological
finds have to be taken into consideration. When changing a spatial or destination plan for a location,
the archaeological values have to be incorporated into the plan including measures to be taken
concerning these values.
9.1 Possible measures for archaeological finds in the civil construction layer
Preservation
The municipality can preserve the
archaeological find below ground level. The
find will be preserved but cannot be displayed.
There are no costs and chances of damage to
the archaeological find are minimal.
No Costs
The municipality can remove the archaeological
find and thus destroy the object. In general this
measure is not very desirable because the find
will be lost.
Costs: € 20.000,People: -15%
The archaeological find can be excavated and
used for other purposes or can be displayed.
Costs: € 200.000,People: +5%
The archaeological find can also be
incorporated into the new real estate
development, thus allowing for the
archaeological find to be displayed and at the
same time allowing for new development. This
requires higher costs and creativity, but local
residents will support the development.
Costs: € 400.000,People: +8%
Removal
Excavation
Incorporation
10. Soil contamination
The municipality has several options when dealing with soil contamination. Pollution found in
Examplia consists primarily of Fluid OrganoChlorid Substances that have been used as dissolvent or
degreaser. In comparison to other types of soil contamination these substances are relatively toxic,
are slowly biodegradable and can easily spread.
The solid soil contamination in the topsoil area (0 to 5 meters below ground level) can be more easily
removed or contained than contamination in deeper soil layers.
10.1 Possible measures for soil contamination in the civil construction layer
Sanitation
By digging the contaminated soil can be
removed. This is a very expensive operation,
but it completely cleans the ground.
Costs: € 1.000.000,People: +5%
Planet: +10%
The soil contamination can be contained by
sealing the layer with covers and adding
foundation to allow for real estate
development on top of the contamination.
Costs: € 200.000,People: +2%
Containment through foundation
10.2 Possible measures for soil contamination in the aquifer zone
Sanitation
To decontaminate the soil this deep, a lot of
soil needs to be replaced. This is a very costly
operation which also has the risk of
evaporation of the fluid organochlorid
substances, causing negative effects on the
atmosphere, risk of exposure and emission of
odor.
Costs: € 5.000.000,People: +5%
Planet: +10%
In-situ decomposition technique can be used to
stimulate the biodegrading of fluid
organochlorid substances. Possibilities are:
natural degradation techniques,
biorestauration, chemical oxidation and
chemical reduction with iron.
Costs: € 500.000,People: +2%
Planet: +3%
Groundwater protection
Protection with closed thermal energy storage
Thermal energy storage methods can be used
to purify soil by storage and extraction of hot or
cold water below ground level. The closed
system contains the contamination within the
area. This technology is still experimental.
Costs: € 200.000,People: +3%
Planet: +1%
Energy supply:
450 MWh per year
Handout Serious Game Urban
Underground Planning for Real Estate,
Energy and Water
Housing corporation HomeSweetHome
1. General
Because of the need for housing in the city of Examplia the Housing corporation HomeSweetHome is
looking for new properties to develop. At the moment the housing corporation owns 450 dwellings in
the development area of Examplia. These dwellings are in bad condition and need to be renovated or
replaced. The housing corporation has the intention to improve the attractiveness of the
neighbourhoods by adding high quality housing and public facilities like f.e. playgrounds. The housing
corporation has 2.5 million euros available to invest in their developments. They can also develop
parking lots, to generate extra income through parking fees. The housing corporation has been asked
by the municipality to co-invest in a new subway station to improve the attractiveness of the city.
2. Objectives
The goals of the housing corporation have been translated into different indicators:
Dwellings: You currently have 450 dwellings and you want to create a total of 1.050 dwellings.
People: You want to reach a 100% score on quality of life in the city.
Planet: Secondary to the before mentioned goals is a 100% score on sustainability.
In order to achieve a successful score co-operation with external partners it is necessary to
implement different urban projects.
3. Possible measures by the housing corporation
In order to influence the performance of the housing corporation the following measures can be
taken:
 Selling, renovating or demolishing existing property
 Building new dwellings to increase the score for housing production.
 Building public facilities like playgrounds to increase quality of life in the city.
 Building parking areas to generate income.
4. Effects of measures
Measures that will be taken by the different stakeholders have an impact on the development of the
city. The effects will be shown through scores on People, Planet, Energy, Water and Housing. Each
stakeholder will also see the impact of the chosen measures on his or her own budget/profit.
5. Development Layers
During the game measures can be taken for different soil layers within the available plots. Certain
measures can influence other measures in the same plot. There are also measures that can only take
effect if they are combined with measures by other players or in other soil layers. During the game
the following soil layers will be taken into consideration:
Layer 1:
Above ground
Layer 2:
Topsoil
Layer 3:
Civil construction layer
Layer 4:
Aquifer zone
Layer 5:
Deep subsurface
Soil layer 1: The space on and above ground level
This layer considers land development on and above ground level.
Developments can take place within the zoning regulations of the
plot. These developments can be for example: real estate
development, parks, roads, parking, energy plants, etc.
Soil layer 2: The topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
This layer concerns developments up to 5 meters below the surface.
This layer can be used for cables and pipelines. The shallow surface
can also contain tree roots.
Soil layer 3: The civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
This layer describes the layer between 5 and 50 meters below
ground level. This layer contains most of the foundations for real
estate development but can also contain other civil engineering
works like underground parking, subway tunnels and stations.
Soil layer 4: The aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
This layer contains the groundwater aquifer 50 to 500 meters below
the ground. An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing
permeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, or silt)
from which groundwater can be extracted using a waterwell. This
layer also partly determines the stability and carrying power (natural
foundation) of the surface.
Soil layer 5: The deep subsurface (500 to 2500 m. below ground
level)
This layer is the deepest layer for underground development. This
layer can contain mineral resources and fossil fuels.
6. Overview and Properties Map
The map shows the overall layout of the city of Examplia and the different possible development
plots. In total 12 plots of approximately 100 m2 are eligible for developments and measures for the
different players in the game.
In the table below the current situation of the plots is described:
Plot
Zoning
plan
Owner
Existing
buildings
Topsoil
Civil
Aquifer
Constructions zone
1
Industry
Watera Water company
Office
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
2
Green Area
3
Housing
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
4
Green Area
City park
Roots
5
Industry
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Watera Water company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Archaeological
find
Pollution
6
Industry
Noxxo Energy company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
7
Leisure
8
Green Area
9
Housing
10
Housing
11
Industry
12
Industry
Archaeological
find
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Noxxo Energy company
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
Textile Factory Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
Pollution
Pollution
7. Soil Composition Map
The municipality has examined the soil composition of the city and presented the soil
composition map to the public. This information is useful for the municipality and its partners to
be able to determine which kind of foundations are necessary to develop real estate projects.
 Sand Soil. This soil has a high natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments
cheaper foundation methods can be applied.
 Clay Soil. This soil has a low natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments strong
foundations are needed.
8. List of measures Housing corporation HomeSweetHome
8.1 Possible measures above ground level
300 Standard Apartments
Standard apartments are perfect to realize a
high production level at low investment cost.
Costs: € 1.200.000,People: +3%
Planet: -2%
Energy use:
750 MWh per year
Water use:
60.000 m3 per year
These luxurious dwellings are very popular
among inhabitants. However, because of the
low density fewer dwellings can be produced in
comparison with apartments.
Costs: € 700.000,People: +5%
Planet: -2%
Energy use:
375 MWh per year
Water use:
30.000 m3 per year
Sustainable apartments provide for housing
without negative effects on the environment.
The use of solar panels and sustainable water
systems reduces energy cost and water use.
Costs: € 1.400.000,People: +4%
Planet: +3%
Energy use:
500 MWh per year
Water use:
40.000 m3 per year
These luxurious sustainable dwellings are in
high demand. They use less energy and water
in comparison to standard dwellings. The
disadvantage is that, in comparison to
apartments, the housing production is half of
that of standard apartment blocks.
Costs: € 800.000,People: +6%
Planet: +5%
Energy use:
250 MWh per year
Water use:
20.000 m3 per year
A city playground is a popular hangout for
children and improves the attractiveness of a
neighbourhood, especially for families.
Costs: € 200.000,People: +7%
Planet: +2%
150 Luxurious Dwellings
300 Sustainable Apartments
150 Luxurious Sustainable Dwellings
City Playgrounds
Sports and Activities Area
A sports or activities area is a popular hangout
for teenagers and improves the attractiveness
of a neighbourhood. These types of playground
have minimal or no green in comparison to
playgrounds, parks or natural areas.
Costs: € 150.000,People: +7%
Planet: -2%
Paid parking areas generate income, but
require space.
Revenue: € 200.000,People: +4%
Planet: -3%
Parking garages generate income, but require
space and foundations.
Revenue: € 400.000,People: +8%
Planet: -5%
Energy use:
8 MWh per year
Parking garages generate income, but require
space and foundations.
Revenue: € 600.000,People: +11%
Planet: -6%
Energy use:
16 MWh per year
Parking Areas
Parking Garage, 3 storeys high
Parking Garage, 6 storeys high
Sustainable Parking Garage, 3 storeys high
A sustainable parking garage generates less
income than a regular parking garage, but has a
more positive effect on the environment and
uses less energy.
Revenue: € 300.000,People: +8%
Planet: +1%
Energy use:
1 MWh per year
8.2 Possible measures in the civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
Underground Parking Garage, 3 storeys
Parking garages generate income, but require
space.
This construction can be used as foundation for
real estate developments on top.
Revenue: € 200.000,People: +4%
Planet: -2%
Energy use:
10 MWh per year
Underground Parking, 6 storeys
Parking garages generate income, but require
space.
This construction can be used as strong
foundation for real estate developments on
top.
Revenue: € 300.000,People: +6%
Planet: -5%
Energy use:
20 MWh per year
Strong Foundation
Strong foundations are necessary to develope
real estate on clay ground.
Costs: € 150.000,-
Minimal foundation can be used to build real
estate on top of sand soil. This is cheaper than
strong foundation.
Costs: € 50.000,-
Strong foundation containing pipe sleeves to
allow for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 200.000,-
Minimal foundation containing pipe sleeves to
allow for pipelines up to 50 meters below
ground level.
Costs: € 100.000,-
Minimal Foundation
Piped Strong Foundation
Piped Minimal Foundation
Handout Serious Game Urban
Underground Planning for Real Estate,
Energy and Water
Energy company
1. General
The city is growing and the demand for energy will continue to rise. The municipality aims to use
sustainable sources of energy. The underground space and resources could contain a solution for
sustainable development. NOXXO is an innovative and sustainable energy company that has been
granted the rights to produce and distribute energy for the city. Besides producing energy above
ground level, NOXXO can also use underground development and resources to provide for energy for
the city. Besides the provision of energy to the city, NOXXO also has to produce 15 thousand MWh
per year for the surrounding areas.
2. Objectives
The goals of the energy company have been translated into different indicators:
Energy: Current use: approximately 1.700 MWh per year.
Requested extra capacity: 15.000 MWh per year (100%).
- Energy use per household is currently approximately 2.5 MWh per year.
- Energy use for sustainable dwellings is approximately 2 MWh per year.
Planet: As a sustainable energy company you aim for a 100% score on sustainability of all projects
(including projects initiated by others).
Profit: The starting budget is one million euros. By investing this budget properly the investment
capital should be doubled in 50 years (2 million euros).
For a successful score co-operation with external partners it is necessary to implement different
urban projects.
3. Possible measures by the energy company
In order to influence the performance of the energy company the following measures can be taken:
 Demolishing existing buildings.
 Installation of electric cables.
 Realization of energy plants.
 Usage of underground developments for energy production.
4. Effects of measures
Measures that will be taken by the different stakeholders have an impact on the development of the
city. The effects will be shown through scores on People, Planet, Energy, Water and Housing. Each
stakeholder will also see the impact of the chosen measures on his or her own budget/profit.
5. Development Layers
During the game, measures can be taken for different soil layers within the available plots. Certain
measures can influence other measures in the same plot. There are also measures that can only take
effect if they are combined with measures by other players or in other soil layers. During the game
the following soil layers will be taken into consideration:
Layer 1:
Above ground
Layer 2:
Topsoil
Layer 3:
Civil construction layer
Layer 4:
Aquifer zone
Layer 5:
Deep subsurface
Soil layer 1: The space on and above ground level
This layer considers land development on and above ground level.
Developments can take place within the zoning regulations of the
plot. These developments can be for example: real estate
development, parks, roads, parking, energy plants, etc.
Soil layer 2: The topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
This layer concerns developments up to 5 meters below the surface.
This layer can be used for cables and pipelines. The shallow surface
can also contain tree roots.
Soil layer 3: The civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
This layer describes the layer between 5 and 50 meters below
ground level. This layer contains most of the foundations for real
estate development but can also contain other civil engineering
works like underground parking, subway tunnels and stations.
Soil layer 4: The aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
This layer contains the groundwater aquifer 50 to 500 meters below
the ground. An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing
permeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, or silt)
from which groundwater can be extracted using a waterwell. This
layer also partly determines the stability and carrying power (natural
foundation) of the surface.
Soil layer 5: The deep subsurface (500 to 2500 m. below ground
level)
This layer is the deepest layer for underground development. This
layer can contain mineral resources and fossil fuels.
6. Overview and Properties Map
The map shows the overall layout of the city of Examplia and the different possible development
plots. In total 12 plots of approximately 100 m2 are eligible for developments and measures for the
different players in the game.
In the table below the current situation of the plots is described:
Plot
Zoning
plan
Owner
Existing
buildings
Topsoil
Civil
Aquifer
Constructions zone
1
Industry
Watera Water company
Office
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
2
Green Area
3
Housing
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
4
Green Area
City park
Roots
5
Industry
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Watera Water company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Archaeological
find
Pollution
6
Industry
Noxxo Energy company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
7
Leisure
8
Green Area
9
Housing
10
Housing
11
Industry
12
Industry
Archaeological
find
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Noxxo Energy company
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
Textile Factory Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
Pollution
Pollution
7. Soil Composition Map
The municipality has examined the soil composition of the city and presented the soil
composition map to the public. This information is useful for the municipality and its partners to
be able to determine which kind of foundations are necessary to develop real estate projects.
 Sand Soil. This soil has a high natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments
cheaper foundation methods can be applied.
 Clay Soil. This soil has a low natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments strong
foundations are needed.
8. List of measures Energy company NOXXO
8.1 Possible measures above ground level
Gas Plant
A gas plant is a simple and cheap way to
produce energy. However a gas plant doesn’t
contribute to the sustainability goals.
Revenue: € 3.550.000,People: -20%
Planet: -40%
Energy supply:
20.000 MWh per year
Water use:
10.000 m3 per year
By drilling pipes deep into the ground thermal
energy can be produced. This sustainable
source of energy can last for approximately 50
years. Drillings are needed for more than 1,5
kilometers deep, which are very costly.
Revenue: € 3.000.000,People: -1%
Planet: +8%
Energy supply:
14.000 MWh per year
Water use:
8.000 m3 per year
This windmill has been developed to be used in
urban environments. The noise disturbance of
this windmill is minimal and it is safe to use in
an urban area. The disadvantage is that
windmills can be turned off and therefore don’t
produce energy during storms or lack of wind.
Revenue: € 50.000,People: -2%
Planet: +10%
Energy supply:
400 MWh per year
Through the use of a large amount of solar
panels energy can be produced. The
disadvantage is that solar panels only work
during the day.
Revenue: € 20.000,People: +3%
Planet: +12%
Energy supply:
120 MWh per year
Geothermal Energy Station
City Windmill
Solar Panels
8.2 Possible measures in the topsoil (0 to 5m. below ground level)
Joined Construction of Cables and Pipelines
In order to develop real estate, cables and
pipelines need to be constructed in the topsoil.
Both the energy company and the water
company are responsible for this. They have to
come to an agreement about financing the
joined construction.
Costs: € 40.000,-
8.3 Possible measures in the civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
Underground Heat Exchanger
An underground heat exchanger consists of
vertical plastic tubes arranged in the soil.
Through this system heat can be extracted and
stored in a simple and sustainable manner.
Revenue: € 10.000,People: +3%
Planet: +4%
Energy supply:
80 MWh per year
Strong foundations are necessary to develope
real estate on clay ground.
Costs: € 150.000,-
Minimal foundation can be used to build real
estate on top of sand soil. This is cheaper than
strong foundation.
Costs: € 50.000,-
Strong foundation containing pipe sleeves
allows for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 200.000,-
Strong Foundation
Minimal Foundation
Piped Strong Foundation
Piped Minimal Foundation
Minimal foundation containing pipe sleeves
allows for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 100.000,-
8.4 Possible measures in the aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
ATES: Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage
An ATES system uses aquifers (underground
water-bearing formations) to store heat and
cold and the groundwater as a heat carrier. This
way, buildings can be cooled during summer
and heated during winter.
Revenue: € 30.000,People: +4%
Planet: +4%
Energy supply:
450 MWh per year
HTSO: High-Temperature-Storage
High-Temperature-Storage in the soil provides
large energy savings and offers a significant
environmental benefit. An important
advantage is that hot water can be extracted
without the use of a pump.
Tube section from 50 to 500 meters below ground level
A tube section from 50 to 500 metres below
ground level ensures the transport of fluids to
the subsurface. This is necessary in order to
realize a geothermal power station.
Revenue: € 10.000,People: +4%
Planet: +8%
Energy supply:
200 MWh per year
Costs: € 200.000,-
8.5 Possible measures in the deep subsurface (500 to 2500 m. below ground
level)
Geothermal Energy Drilling
By drilling almost a kilometre deep it is possible
to make geothermal energy available for
energy production with a geothermal power
plant.
Costs: € 1.500.000,-
Handout Serious Game Urban
Underground Planning for Real Estate,
Energy and Water
Water company
1. General
The city is growing and the demand for drinking water will increase. The municipality wants to use
water resources sustainably. Water company Watera has to provide for drinking water in the city and
has to make an additional 150.000 m3 drinking water available for the surrounding area. The
groundwater is generally speaking in good condition and there are plenty of locations to extract this
water. By designating areas for groundwater protection, the water company can continuously
guarantee the quality of the groundwater. The possibility to designate these areas also depends on
the willingness of other stakeholders in the city to make these locations available.
2. Objectives
The goals of the water company have been translated into different indicators:
Drinking water: Current use is approximately 150.000 m3 per year.
Required extra production is 150.000 m3 per year.
- Water use per normal household is now approximately 200 m3 per year.
- Sustainable dwellings use approximately 150 m3 per year.
Profit: Watera has a budget of 1 million euros. The goal is to double this budget by proper
investments for the next 50 years (2 million euros).
In order to achieve a successful score co-operation with external partners it is necessary to
implement different urban projects.
3. Possible measures by the water company
In order to influence the performance of the water company the following measures can be taken:
 Demolishing existing buildings.
 Installation of water pipelines.
 Realization of water plants.
 Designation of groundwater protection areas.
4. Effects of measures
Measures that will be taken by the different stakeholders have an impact on the development of the
city. The effects will be shown through scores on People, Planet, Energy, Water and Housing. Each
stakeholder will also see the impact of the chosen measures on his or her own budget/profit.
5. Development Layers
During the game, measures can be taken for different soil layers within the available plots. Certain
measures can influence other measures in the same plot. There are also measures that can only take
effect if they are combined with measures by other players or in other soil layers. During the game
the following soil layers will be taken into consideration:
Layer 1:
Above ground
Layer 2:
Topsoil
Layer 3:
Civil construction layer
Layer 4:
Aquifer zone
Layer 5:
Deep subsurface
Soil layer 1: The space on and above ground level
This layer considers land development on and above ground level.
Developments can take place within the zoning regulations of the
plot. These developments can be for example: real estate
development, parks, roads, parking, energy plants, etc.
Soil layer 2: The topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
This layer concerns developments up to 5 meters below the surface.
This layer can be used for cables and pipelines. The shallow surface
can also contain tree roots.
Soil layer 3: The civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
This layer describes the layer between 5 and 50 meters below
ground level. This layer contains most of the foundations for real
estate development but can also contain other civil engineering
works like underground parking, subway tunnels and stations.
Soil layer 4: The aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
This layer contains the groundwater aquifer 50 to 500 meters below
the ground. An aquifer is an underground layer of water-bearing
permeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, or silt)
from which groundwater can be extracted using a waterwell. This
layer also partly determines the stability and carrying power (natural
foundation) of the surface.
Soil layer 5: The deep subsurface (500 to 2500 m. below ground
level)
This layer is the deepest layer for underground development. This
layer can contain mineral resources and fossil fuels.
6. Overview and Properties Map
The map shows the overall layout of the city of Examplia and the different possible development
plots. In total 12 plots of approximately 100 m2 are eligible for developments and measures for the
different players in the game.
In the table below the current situation of the plots is described:
Plot
Zoning
plan
Owner
Existing
buildings
Topsoil
Civil
Aquifer
Constructions zone
1
Industry
Watera Water company
Office
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
2
Green Area
3
Housing
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
4
Green Area
City park
Roots
5
Industry
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Watera Water company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Archaeological
find
Pollution
6
Industry
Noxxo Energy company
Industry
Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
7
Leisure
8
Green Area
9
Housing
10
Housing
11
Industry
12
Industry
Archaeological
find
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Housing corporation
HomeSweetHome
Municipality of
Examplia
Noxxo Energy company
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
150 dwellings
Cables and Pipelines
Foundations
Textile Factory Cables and Pipelines
Pollution
Pollution
Pollution
7. Soil Composition Map
The municipality has examined the soil composition of the city and presented the soil
composition map to the public. This information is useful for the municipality and its partners to
be able to determine which kind of foundations are necessary to develop real estate projects.
 Sand Soil. This soil has a high natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments
cheaper foundations methods can be applied.
 Clay Soil. This soil has a low natural foundational capacity. For real estate developments strong
foundations are needed.
8. List of measures Water company Watera
8.1 Possible measures above ground level
Water Extraction and Purification Plant
A water extraction plant is needed to extract
and purify groundwater from the aquifer zone.
Revenue:
€ 1.500.0000,Energy use:
8 MWh per year
Waterproduction:
100.000 m3 per year
8.2 Possible measures in the topsoil (0 to 5 m. below ground level)
Joined Construction of Cables and Pipelines
In order to develop real estate, cables and
pipelines have to be constructed into the
topsoil. Both the energy company and the
water company are responsible for this. They
have to come to an agreement about financing
the joined construction.
Costs: € 40.000,-
8.3 Possible measures in the civil construction layer (5 to 50 m. below ground
level)
Tube section from 5 to 50 meters below ground level
A tube section from 5 to 50 metres below
ground level ensures the transport of fluids
from the aquifer zone. This is necessary in
order to realize a geothermal power station or
a water extraction plant.
Costs: € 75.000,-
Strong Foundation
Strong foundations are necessary to develope
real estate on clay ground.
Costs: € 150.000,-
Minimal foundation can be used to build real
estate on top of sand soil. This is cheaper than
strong foundation.
Costs: € 50.000,-
Minimal Foundation
Piped Strong Foundation
Strong foundation containing pipe sleeves
allows for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 200.000,-
Minimal foundation containing pipe sleeves
allows for pipelines up to 50 metres below
ground level.
Costs: € 100.000,-
Piped Minimal Foundation
8.4 Possible measures in the aquifer zone (50 to 500 m. below ground level)
Drilling to aquifer zone
By drilling to the aquifer zone the water
extraction plant can extract available
groundwater.
No costs
By designating the protection of groundwater
in this area, the groundwater will remain
available for drinking water production.
Costs: € 10.000,Water production:
10.000 m3 per year
Groundwater protection area