Seemingly any device we place in our hands today, from our phone to our toothbrush, is a “smart device”- a network connected device that uses data to relay important information, like when our oil needs changed, or if it is too cold for a swim.
But imagine every part of daily life being connected. From tracking the train to work – to wait times at the coffee shop along the way – and directions to the dry cleaner for when you spill said coffee on your favorite shirt – to the energy grid that powers it all. Everything connected and talking to each other in real time to make sure things run efficiently – that is a smart city.
A new $11 million project led by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, will drive the development of new technology to support flexible demand for energy, empowering users to have more control over their electricity usage, save money and ease pressure on the energy grid.
Flexible demand is an alternative to the traditionally rigid energy network infrastructure, offering a way to lighten the load on the grid during busy periods, reduce energy costs and lower peak demand.
Global data firm NCS NEXT’s James Vincent believes Australian governments should adopt an array of smart city solutions that will assist in the delivery of citizen services, in the wake of unprecedented population growth.
Australia is due to reach 30 million people by the end of the decade. Modern technologies will improve experiences and efficiency of infrastructure and public transport, with smart meters, sensor technology and AI suggested by Vincent, the company’s Australian Chief Technology Officer.
Weiterlesen: AU: The technologies equipped to assist in emissions reduction
Australia’s high level of urbanisation of 77 per cent greatly exceeds the global average, making it a fertile ground for smart city projects. The Australian Government released a Smart Cities Plan in 2016 and offered $50M in grants to support the plan. Yet many challenges remain, writes Léon Langlais.
A recent UniSA study found that more than half of surveyed households didn’t understand what a smart city is and how it could benefit them.
The Federal Government’s Smart Cities Plan outlines ways to maximise the potential of cities using the three pillars of smart investment, smart policy and smart technology.
Central Coast Council’s adopted Economic Development Strategy references a number of initiatives relating to the Smart City Plan with which Council aligns, but what might that mean for our region?
Weiterlesen: AU: New South Wales: Central Coast: How will Smart City planning affect us?