Pforzheim on its way to becoming a smart city

From Wi-Fi for all, waste robots and fuel banks to sensors and AI in organic waste - Pforzheim in Baden-Württemberg is facing up to the challenges of the future with a clear goal: to become smarter, more connected and more sustainable. Fabian Böpple, project manager of the Smart City funding program, explains: “Like many cities, Pforzheim is also facing challenges such as structural change, new mobility needs and climate protection. Digitalization plays a key role in this.” 9.1 million euros have been invested in Pforzheim since 2021 via the “Smart Cities Model Projects” funding program and will be used for specific projects and measures.

Smart projects that shape Pforzheim

Pforzheim was one of the first major cities to introduce a public Wi-Fi service in 2013. Böpple explains: “We recognized the opportunities of digitalization early on and equipped places with high visitor numbers in the city centre in particular with Wi-Fi.” This infrastructure forms the basis for further smart innovations in the city.

Another example is the “Ansgar” waste robot, which autonomously collects waste from green spaces. “Alongside Berlin, we are the second city to use such a device,” says Böpple. Ansgar can collect the smallest pieces of garbage, such as broken glass and cigarette butts. If the collection route and the collected waste are evaluated, it quickly becomes clear when and where the robot needs to be deployed. Ansgar can cover an area of around 6,000m² with one battery charge and can collect around 10 liters of waste.

Pforzheim is also breaking new ground in the area of waste management. The city is optimizing waste separation with AI-supported detection of foreign matter in organic waste garbage cans. “A camera system in the collection vehicles recognizes what does not belong in the organic waste during the emptying process,” explains Böpple. This measure raises awareness among citizens, significantly improves the quality of organic waste, saves costs during sorting and ultimately helps with further processing into compost.

The city also relies on intelligent irrigation systems. “Our tank banks automatically supply trees with water. An algorithm controls the water reservoir based on soil moisture data and weather forecasts,” explains Böpple. This solution saves water and optimizes the maintenance of green spaces. The fill level of the tank is monitored digitally so that water can be topped up immediately if necessary.

Tools for the transformation

A key element of the smart city strategy in Pforzheim is the use of IoT sensors to optimize urban processes. Böpple emphasizes: “Sensors help us to master everyday challenges efficiently, from traffic control to green space irrigation.” Through targeted projects, innovative ideas are tested and implemented to improve the quality of life of citizens and at the same time use resources more efficiently.

Citizen participation also plays a major role in Pforzheim. A special platform enables people in the city to get actively involved. “The platform allows us to communicate with citizens more quickly and transparently. This strengthens the legitimacy of political measures,” explains Böpple. And even young people can be easily involved in decision-making processes.

Tips for getting started as a Smart City

Böpple has valuable advice for cities that are still at the beginning of their digital transformation: “Start with small pilot projects to test feasibility. Involve citizens at an early stage and seek partnerships with companies and universities.” It is also important to plan for the long term and remain flexible. “Technologies are developing rapidly. That's why you have to continuously adapt your strategy,” says Böpple.

Involve citizens, don't forget the elderly

The Smart City initiative in Pforzheim has been largely well received. Many citizens appreciate the improved services and the efforts to save energy and resources. However, due to the lengthy nature of our construction projects, there are sometimes questions about when we will be able to show results. We are constantly working to address these concerns through transparent communication and by maintaining a regular public presence.”

Older people in particular should not be left behind in the digital transformation. In collaboration with the adult education center, the city offers smartphone courses for beginners, which are very well received and regularly fully booked. There is also the “mobile learning room” - a tiny house that offers training courses and workshops on digital education at various locations in the city. “With this local offering, we are lowering the barriers, especially for older people,” explains Böpple.

Smart City: a never-ending story, in a positive sense

“A smart city is never finished,” emphasizes Böpple. “Technologies continue to develop and we have to continuously adapt.” Pforzheim has laid the foundations with its smart city strategy and is striving to make the city sustainable and fit for the future through continuous innovation.