The IoT platform for the urban environment is an enabler of development

Architectural model of the City of Tampere IoT platform 2025

Currently, Tampere's IoT platform is used for monitoring and controlling, for example, traffic, outdoor lighting, city maintenance, telecom security and heating systems. The platform also enables the creation of new operating models and services that make use of the data produced by the city.

The city has a number of cameras and sensors that collect data on traffic and weather conditions, for example. The picture shows a weather sensor on a light pole in the Central Square.

The urban environment is one of the most promising application areas for the IoT platform. Where did Tampere start? I will describe the benefits of the IoT platform through three examples.

Real-time control of outdoor lighting

The entire outdoor lighting of the city of Tampere is connected to the IoT platform, enabling real-time situational awareness and control of lighting. Information on electricity consumption and lighting faults is available, helping city employees to repair faults quickly and efficiently. This has improved the reliability of lighting. The IoT platform has also been used to control lighting at certain major events, where, for example, different coloured street lights have been used to guide crowds to exit routes.

Staircase lighting and energy saving

The Ratina staircase defrosting system is automated using an IoT platform. Based on the weather forecast, the system is triggered before snowfall to prevent slipperiness. On the other hand, the system will not start if the temperature does not fall below the threshold. The automated system keeps the stairs safe and saves energy.

In pilot: monitoring the usage rates of playgrounds and outdoor gyms

Tampere is currently testing an IoT platform to monitor the usage rates of playgrounds and outdoor sports areas in the city centre. The data collected by the cameras is transmitted over a closed, secure communication network to a peripheral calculator, which counts different objects in the image but does not identify people. Information on the usage rates of different equipment helps to plan maintenance. On the other hand, it also helps in the planning of new playgrounds and outdoor gyms, as the city can learn which equipment is most popular with residents. If the pilot continues, in the future, residents could check via a mobile app whether there are enough playmates at a playground or players on a sports field.

Tampere is also planning to deploy an IoT platform at its harbours to allow city residents to use their boats around the clock.

Technology enables, people decide

Overall, the deployment of IoT platforms in urban environments brings new opportunities. It offers many benefits and solutions to urban challenges and objectives, but it also requires many conditions to implement and manage them.

The IoT platform is not just a technical tool but an enabler for smart decisions. It collects real-time data that can be used by city officials and policy makers to influence the city's operations and a better living experience in Tampere. Therefore, making use of this kind of activity in the urban environment requires cooperation, dialogue and innovation among all stakeholders in the city.