In the R4E project a four step process was applied. The first step sets the ambitions for the project. The ambitions of the participating cities on sustainable energy and Smart Cities in general were set, as well as the partner cities' choice for 2 focus areas within Smart Energy Savings: 1.Smart Buildings, 2. Smart Mobility or 3. Smart Urban Spaces.

The second step was to develop desired scenarios for the cities for the selected focus areas.

During the third step the roadmap was created, existing and future technologies and other developments will be identified, which enable the realization of the desired future scenarios. Opportunities and developments were plotted on a timeline to provide insight into the required steps and milestones towards the favoured scenarios. The roadmaps contained generic parts that are common for the partner cities, as well as specific parts that cater for the specific context of the cities.

During the final and fourth step a project portfolio was generated with new projects and initiatives to reach the ambitions, visions and roadmaps of the cities. This portfolio provided an overview of individual and joint projects and includes a cross-city learning plan and a financial plan.