A model of urban energy consumption has been developed using energy supply data and post-code information. The model simulates spatial and diurnal variations in energy demand, and also models the effect of energy-management measures and associated reductions in CO2 emissions. A linear programming optimisation module is used to identify the most cost-effective measures to achieve specified CO2 or energy reduction-targets. When combined with data from an associated attitudinal survey, the model can be used to assess the potential for CO2 reduction in the urban environment. (c) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd.