Current status of Smart City in Ukraine and the world
The Smart City system is a global trend that dates back to 2009. It aims to create a comfortable, safe, and convenient environment for residents with the help of modern technologies and innovative solutions. Find out how this concept is being implemented in Ukraine, what difficulties stand in the way of its development, and how you can support the reconstruction of our country.
What is a Smart City and what does the system look like around the world?
Today, there are more than 2,500 cities in the world that have implemented elements of the Smart City concept. The main goal of such cities is to improve the quality of life of residents through economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
A Smart City is based on eight key components:
- transport management and traffic monitoring systems;
- air and water quality tracking;
- e-governance;
- "smart" lighting;
- free Wi-Fi access in public places;
- collection and analysis of big data;
- personal data protection;
- electronic public services.
Leaders in the implementation of smart technologies are Singapore, Zurich, Oslo, London, New York, Amsterdam, Paris, and Copenhagen.
Smart City in Ukraine: Achievements and Challenges
Ukraine began developing the Smart City concept in 2015. Elements of the system have been implemented in Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Zaporizhzhia, and other cities. For example, in the capital, an electronic ticket system, video surveillance, and online booking for hospitals and government agencies are functioning.
The "Safe City" system is also operating in some cities—video surveillance cameras with license plate and face recognition. In Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Lviv, the "Smart Lighting" system (LED lamps with motion sensors) is functioning, and pilot Smart Grid projects have been launched to distribute electricity and connect renewable sources.
A special success in Ukraine is the "Diia" application, which has made most government services available online. This service allows citizens to vote, sign petitions, and interact with the state in a convenient way.
However, the full implementation of the concept is hampered by several factors:
- Lack of a strategic vision. Cities do not have clearly defined plans for the development of Smart solutions.
- Lack of funding. The implementation of systems depends not only on the state but also on businesses and investors.
- Lack of specialists. The absence of a single government body that would coordinate the implementation of Smart City complicates its development.
- Cyberattacks and security issues. Due to the war, the risks of cyberattacks are increasing, which threaten the digital infrastructure of cities.
The Future of the Smart City in Ukraine
Despite the challenges, the war can be a catalyst for the development of innovations. The reconstruction of destroyed cities provides an opportunity to rebuild them from scratch, taking into account modern technologies. Such an approach will make Ukraine more competitive and attractive to investors.
The Smart City concept is not just about convenience. It is a strategic necessity that will help Ukraine become a leader in innovation on a global scale.
Development Prospects
- Integration of BESS and renewable energy for the energy independence of cities.
- Expansion of Smart Grid for balancing loads in critical conditions.
- Digitalization of housing and communal services (smart water, heat, and electricity meters).
- Development of security solutions (automated shelters, autonomous warning systems).