Germany’s Smart Villages: Breaking Tech Stereotypes

Germany might have a reputation for being a bit traditional when it comes to new tech, but the recent win by Borchen-Etteln in the IEEE Smart Cities Contest 2024 proves otherwise. Their innovative “Digital Village Twin Etteln” project took first place in the Developed Economy category, showing that when Germany embraces tech, it does so with precision and excellence.

Etteln managed to outshine even well-known tech powerhouses like Hong Kong, impressing the contest judges with its smart city approach.

So what distinguishes Etteln as a smart village? Its residents benefit from a variety of digital tools, such as apps that simplify booking transportation, sharing community news, or contacting local authorities. One standout feature allows residents to reserve an electric car or a cargo e-bike free of charge, with real-time updates on availability provided by the app.

Additionally, the app displays the current usage levels of shared community resources.

This digital transformation was made possible by the strong dedication of the local community. A team of 60 volunteers collectively invested over 3,000 hours to lay 30 kilometers of fiber optic cable, a significant undertaking that brought high-speed internet to the village.

A particularly unique feature of Etteln is its “digital twin,” a virtual replica of the village. This model simulates emergency situations, such as floods, enabling residents to gain insights and prepare for potential outcomes and effective responses.

It’s nice to see that beyond the stereotypes, Germany is making significant strides in integrating modern technology into its communities with improving results.