The development of smart cities in Europe as a model for post-war Ukraine – Denys Kostrzhevskyi

Smart cities leverage innovative technologies to enhance the quality of life for residents, optimize city services, and strengthen infrastructure resilience. Europe is a leader in this field, implementing a variety of projects, from integrating IT solutions into domestic systems to creating fully integrated ecosystems that promote sustainable urban development.

“Ukraine has the opportunity to utilize European experience in developing smart cities to address its own urban challenges, especially in the context of post-war reconstruction and modernization,” asserts Denys Kostrzhevskyi, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Kyiv International Airport.

Smart Cities in Europe

Cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam, Vienna, Copenhagen, and Helsinki exemplify the implementation of smart technologies to enhance urban living. Barcelona utilizes intelligent traffic management and motion-activated street lighting, along with sensors to monitor infrastructure and safety. Amsterdam has introduced innovative water management systems, ‘smart’ energy meters, and a ‘smart’ parking system to reduce congestion and emissions. Vienna integrates smart technologies into building energy efficiency, interactive public spaces, and waste management systems, creating ‘smart’ districts that improve residents’ lives.

Copenhagen is renowned for its eco-friendly solutions to reduce CO2 emissions, intelligent transport management, and advanced bicycle infrastructure that encourages the use of clean transport. Helsinki actively implements technologies to enhance the efficiency of city services, including transport management and energy-efficient buildings, and also develops projects in renewable energy, utilizing solar and wind power stations.

“These cities demonstrate how innovations can make urban living more comfortable, secure, and sustainable,” he says.

Applying This Experience in Ukraine

Ukraine’s post-war recovery requires a comprehensive approach to modernization, reconstruction, and occasionally creating entirely new systems in the energy sector. One of the key aspects is the decentralization of energy production. “Using small and medium-sized energy installations located throughout the country can significantly reduce vulnerability to attacks and provide more stable energy supply. Such an approach allows for the creation of a decentralized system that is more flexible and resilient to external impacts,” continues Kostrzhevskyi.

A critical component of a sustainable energy system is the renewability of energy sources. Attracting investments in solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy will play a crucial role in creating a clean energy future. These energy sources not only reduce dependence on traditional fossil fuels but also help decrease greenhouse gas emissions, which is vital for combating climate change.

“The intelligence of processes plays a key role in enhancing the efficiency of the energy system. Integrating modern IT solutions to optimize production, distribution, and energy consumption can reduce losses and increase overall efficiency. The use of smart meters and resource management systems will allow for accurate accounting of water, electricity, and other resources, contributing to loss reduction,” he is confident.

Security and diversification of energy sources are also critically important. Developing systems that can use alternative energy sources during critical periods will provide greater independence and security of the energy system. This will help avoid disruptions in energy supply and reduce risks associated with dependence on one or a few sources.

“At the same time, transparency and rationality in tariff formation are necessary conditions for ensuring economic stability. Open and fair pricing based on clear criteria and actual costs will increase consumer trust and promote greater economic stability. This will also facilitate the attraction of investments in the energy sector, which is necessary for its further development and modernization,” noted Denys Kostrzhevskyi.

Integrating these principles into the recovery of Ukraine’s energy sector can lay the foundation for a sustainable and innovative future, ensuring reliable and clean energy supply for all citizens. Implementing these principles will allow Ukraine not only to restore the energy sector but also to create a modern, efficient, and safe energy system capable of meeting future challenges