The trial form part of the Europe-wide Smart Cities and Communities element of the EU’s Horizon 2020 innovation programme to find new technologies to solve challenges faced by expanding cities.

In London, the project is being carried out in partnership with the Royal Borough of Greenwich and will see 300 smart parking bays introduced to optimise parking spaces and help drivers find a space quickly and conveniently.

In addition, electric bikes are being tested to see if these support a shift from private cars, while electric vehicles will be piloted for local deliveries and car sharing.

Other projects include using the River Thames as a renewable energy source to provide affordable heat to local homes and installing solar panels on homes to provide green energy and improve energy efficiency.

Paul Brodrick, head of connected communities, Siemens Energy Management, said: “We are proud partners of the Smart Cities and Communities Lighthouse programme. We believe that by investing in technology, with a focus on renewable and electrification London has the potential to be a global beacon for smart technology and sustainability. This programme will help make that possibility a reality. What is really exciting is the long term potential of this project. The data sharing between European cities and opportunities to develop a cities focused R&D pipeline in London could help keep the UK be at the cutting edge future city technologies.”