Abstract
The article considers a conflict between Soviet-era insolation norms and compact city goals of Astana. This study compares two block typologies – a Soviet microdistrict and a Western perimeter block – through parametric simulation (EnergyPlus, CFD, Ladybug). Results show that insolation-driven morphology produces 24% higher heating demand, 44% lower land-use efficiency, and poor wind comfort. The paper argues for replacing prescriptive insolation requirements with performance-based metrics (sDA, EN 17037) to enable energy-efficient and highdensity development in cold climates.