A Testing Ground for Innovative Technologies: Kythnos Smart Island Project Completed

Illustration : Clean energy for EU islands

Kythnos, capitalising on the history of the first island as a testing ground for innovative smart energy technologies, has been for the last four years a new living lab for the planning and implementation of a holistic strategy for upgrading infrastructure and public space and strengthening the local economy.

The importance of addressing water, waste and transport in correlation with clean energy production and management in the insular environment of Kythnos island has been effectively demonstrated. Sector coupling

Kythnos is now a real example of applying the principles of sustainable development and circular economy by integrating elements of technological and social innovation, having produced significant results and experience to be used by other islands and beyond!

An indicative list of the interventions that have taken place follows:

Renovation and upgrades in the pioneering off grid microgrid of Gaidouromandra
Energy upgrade of municipal buildings introducing heat pumps, PVs and battery energy storage systems
Redesign and energy retrofitting of the street and public spaces lighting
Installation of 3 new desalination plants along with upgrade of existing water distribution network to reduce losses
Public space regeneration and traffic management interventions in the 3 main settlements of the island
Implementation of a door-to-door recyclable waste collection system with the use of light utility EVs
Development of a prototype centre for bulky and green waste management
Installation of a public and private EV-charging network in collaboration with hotels and restaurants of the islands
Upgrade of the local marina to a smart and green one
Promotion of demand side management through the installation of smart meters, batteries and a DR platform in private and municipal buildings

During the project’s final event earlier this year the significant added value of the project as a source of inspiration and example for all other islands, especially in view of the ongoing GReco islands national initiative, was highlighted by all participants.