The ASCEND project aims to make Positive Clean Energy Districts (PCEDs) a routine solution to combat climate change and foster inclusive, resilient, and smart communities. It will create two PCEDs in the Lighthouse cities of Lyon and Munich, supported by six Multiplier cities: Porto, Charleroi, Stockholm, Prague, Budapest, and Alba Iulia. These cities represent diverse urban districts, including city centers, outskirts, ageing residential areas, and industrial zones. PCEDs consist of five pillars: active citizenship, zero-carbon frugal buildings, smart energy grids, decarbonised public spaces and mobility, and digital tools. At the core is an urban orchestrator that aggregates all components and services to implement sustainable changes at the district level. The project connects each pillar through a federating digital platform and a "human network" of local stakeholders.