The role of mega commercial complexes on energy sustainability in the spatial development of regional metropolises A Case study of Mashhad

Articles in Press

Document Type : scientific-research article

Authors

Esmaeil AliAkbari ¹

Mostafa Taleshi ²

arefeh aliakbari ³

¹ Professor, Department of Geography, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran.

² Professor, Department of Geography, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran

³ Ph.D. student in Geography and Urban Planning, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22067/jgrd.2026.96927.1618

Abstract

Given the rapid growth of high-rise commercial struc tures in urban centers and their implications for energy consumption patterns, this study aims to evaluate and analyze the role of these complexes in shaping energy-related indicators in the metropolitan area of Mashhad. To assess and evaluate this role, six criteria—type of energy supply sy stem, spatial location, building height, envelope materials, type of heating–cooling equipment, and energy storage capability—were examined using the Analytic Hie rarchy Process (AHP) for physical planning and development. The required data were collected through interviews and specialized questionnaires admi nistered to experts in architecture, civil engineering, energy systems, project management, and urban geography, and were subse quently analyzed using appropriate statist ical tools.

The statistical population consists of twelve high-rise and mid-rise commercial complexes located across different urban districts of Mashhad. The findings indicate that envelope materials, building height, and energy supply systems exert the greatest influence on dependent indicators such as electricity consumption, energy costs, CO₂ emissions, energy supply sustainability, and storage capability. In particular, the use of high-performance thermal insulation materials and advanced energy systems—such as combined heat and power (CHP)—plays a significant role in reducing energy consumption and enhancing sustainability.

By providing a localized model for energy analysis in high-rise commercial structures, this study offers valuable insights for policymakers, designers, and project managers seeking to optimize energy consumption patterns in the physical development planning of regional metropolitan areas.

Keywords: functional role, major commercial complexes, sustainability of energy consumption patterns, physical development, Mashhad regional metro polis

Keywords

Role-playing

large commercial complexes

sustainability of energy consumption patterns

physical development

Mashhad regional metropolis

Subjects

• Planning in urban and rural areas

---