What Is a Smart City? Definition, Examples, and Benefits
We live in an era where cities face increasingly complex challenges: from growing urban populations to the urgent need to cut emissions and enhance quality of life. In this context, the concept of the smart city has emerged — a model of urban development that leverages digital technologies and innovation to become more efficient, sustainable, and livable. But what exactly is a smart city? And what benefits does it bring to citizens and the environment? Let’s start with the most widely accepted definition.
What Are Smart Cities?
Have you ever wondered what a smart city is? The definition has evolved over time, driven by rapid technological advancement. Various organizations have proposed different interpretations of the smart city concept. We refer to the definition provided by the European Union:
“A smart city is a place where traditional networks and services are made more efficient through the use of digital solutions for the benefit of its inhabitants and businesses. A smart city goes beyond just using digital technologies for better resource use and lower emissions […]”
What Are the Benefits of a Smart City?
Smart cities promote more efficient resource use while reducing emissions associated with urban services. For instance, a digitally enhanced urban transport network can encourage the use of green energy and provide more efficient infrastructure to serve all buildings. These improvements result in better services, lower environmental impact, and enhanced living conditions for citizens.
IoT and Smart Cities: How Technology Is Transforming Urban Life
IoT and smart cities are deeply interconnected. Smart cities rely on IoT (Internet of Things) devices—such as sensors, smart lighting, and connected meters—to collect and analyze real-time data. This ecosystem is supported by a robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed citywide Wi-Fi networks and interconnected smart devices capable of communicating with each other. Advanced sensors gather live data, offering crucial insights that help optimize public services and resource management.
Smart Cities and Sustainability: An Integrated Vision
In smart cities, technology plays a key role in promoting sustainability by enhancing urban efficiency and reducing pollution. Electric transportation and shared mobility solutions—like e-scooters and electric bikes—make travel more eco-friendly. The growing electric vehicle market further strengthens the link between innovation and environmental care.
Sustainability also includes green buildings, renewable energy sources, and smart resource management. Urban planning strategies and advanced technologies work hand in hand to improve quality of life while preserving environmental balance.
Investing in digitalization and energy efficiency generates economic returns: while upfront costs may be high, long-term savings offset them, making the smart city model a cost-effective solution.
Examples of Smart Cities
There are numerous examples of smart cities around the world that are making significant progress in digital transformation. According to the 2024 ICity Rank report, the eight Italian cities that have fully integrated technology across infrastructure and services are Bergamo, Bologna, Florence, Genoa, Milan, Modena, Rome, and Venice. Additionally, around 30 municipalities are accelerating their digital transition, bridging the gap between large and small cities, and between the North and South of the country—thanks in part to projects funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Italgas’ Role in Smart City Development
In Italy, Italgas plays a leading role in advancing smart cities within the energy distribution sector. The company is investing in smart, digitalized networks to better manage consumption and resources, alongside sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives.
Smart cities represent the future of urban living, and Italgas is committed to being at the forefront of this urban revolution.