Current state of Smart City in Ukraine and the world

The Smart City system is a global trend that dates back to 2009. It is aimed at creating a comfortable, safe and convenient environment for residents using modern technologies and innovative solutions. Find out how this concept is being implemented in Ukraine, what challenges stand in the way of its development, and how you can support the recovery of our country.

What is a Smart City and what does the system look like in 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 these cities is to improve the quality of life of their residents through economic, social and environmental sustainability.

Smart City is based on eight key components:

– transport management and traffic monitoring systems
– air and water quality monitoring;
– e-government;
– smart lighting;
– free access to Wi-Fi in public places;
– collection and analysis of big data;
– protection of personal data;
– electronic public services.
Singapore, Zurich, Oslo, London, New York, Amsterdam, Paris, and Copenhagen are leaders in the implementation of smart technologies.

Smart City in Ukraine: achievements and challenges

Ukraine started 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, the capital has an e-ticketing system, video surveillance, and online registration to hospitals and government agencies.

In some cities, the Safe City system is also in place, with video surveillance cameras that recognise licence plates and faces; in Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Lviv, the Smart Lighting system (LED lamps with motion sensors) is in place, and Smart Grid pilot projects have been launched to distribute electricity and connect renewable sources.

A particular success in Ukraine is the Diia app, which has made most public services available online. This service allows people 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 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 business and investors.
– Lack of specialists. The absence of a single government agency that would coordinate the implementation of Smart City complicates development.
– Cyberattacks and security issues. The war has increased the risk of cyberattacks that threaten the digital infrastructure of cities.

The future of Smart City in Ukraine

Despite the challenges, war can be a catalyst for innovation. Restoration of destroyed cities provides an opportunity to build them anew, taking into account modern technologies. This approach will make Ukraine more competitive and attractive to investors.

The concept of a smart city is not just about convenience. It is a strategic need that will help Ukraine become a leader in innovation on a global scale.

Development prospects

– Integration of BESS and renewable energy for energy independence of cities.
– Expanding the Smart Grid to balance loads in critical conditions.
– Digitalisation of the housing and utilities sector (smart meters for water, heat, and electricity).
– Development of security solutions (automated shelters, autonomous warning systems).