€25m 'smart city' project to pilot energy tech in London
The Smart Cities and Communities Lighthouse programme, which focuses largely on the borough of Greenwich, will test the heat pump technology in an effort to improve air quality, by avoiding the need to use boilers, and lower energy bills.
An increased number of domestic solar panels will be installed to improve energy efficiency as part of the EU initiative, while the supply and demand of energy will be locally managed by energy partners involved in the programme, using state-of-the-art digital technology to help reduce carbon emissions in the capital.
The programme, which will also pilot the use of electric bikes and cars across the city, along with 300 smart parking bays that aim to help drivers find spaces more quickly, is being pioneered in cities such as Milan, Lisbon, Warsaw, Bordeaux and Burgas, with the project touted to be rolled-out across Europe if successful.
The Mayor of London Boris Johnson MP believes new approaches need to be found to support London’s record growth, while also emphasising the need to harness the city’s “incredible technical prowess.”
“By leading this ground-breaking international project we will be able to share ideas with our European counterparts as we work to create a city that is fit for the future and an even greater place to live, work and visit,” he said.
The project is also set to develop a new data sharing model in order to better connect the cities involved in the programme, along with other places across Europe, with the EU initiative hoped to “change the way cities, their communities and services work.”
Paul Brodrick, head of connected communities at Siemens Energy Management, which is partner of the project, believes London has the potential to be a global beacon for smart technology and sustainability, if it focuses on investment in renewables and electrification.
“This programme will help make that possibility a reality. What is really exciting is the long term potential of this project. The data sharing between European cities and opportunities to develop a cities focused R&D pipeline in London could help keep the UK be at the cutting edge future city technologies.”
Denise Hyland, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, is delighted by the borough’s selection in the EU programme.
“I am also delighted to be working with the Mayor of London’s Office, the many prestigious partners involved, and of course, the cities of Milan, Lisbon, Bordeaux, Burgas and Warsaw. This provides the opportunity to share our experience and learn from others and in doing so, provide further insight into how the use of technology and data analytics can help tackle many of the problems our cities face.
“The Horizon 2020 project will give further impetus to our smart city work and help bring about transformational change. I would like to add my thanks to all those involved in preparing this winning bid for their future commitment in ensuring its successful implementation.”
