Cash-strapped councils and their local facilities across the UK could see a much-needed financial boost thanks to innovative 5G technology
According to a poll of 2,000 UK, 92% revealed they are worried about the future of their local facilities and three-quarters (77%) have already seen libraries, leisure centres and even schools close due to a lack of council funding – with figures showing 1,000 swimming pools have closed in England since 2010 alone.
New research by Vodafone UK reveals that implementing 5G-powered solutions in public buildings like schools, hospitals, and leisure centres could save a staggering £580 million annually in taxpayer money.
Combined technological efforts to help boost green goals
A combination of cutting-edge technologies – the Internet of Things (IoT), smart sensors, and virtual building replicas known as “digital twins”.
These tools, powered by a reliable 5G network, would enable:
- Smarter energy management:
- Sensors would monitor energy use in real time, allowing for adjustments to heating, cooling, and lighting systems. This could lead to a 17% reduction in public building energy consumption, saving the equivalent electricity used by 300,000 homes per year.
- Predictive maintenance:
- Digital twins would provide virtual models of buildings, allowing engineers to identify potential problems and fix them before they occur, reducing downtime and repair costs.
- Improved building efficiency:
- By analyzing data from sensors, adjustments can be made to optimize building usage and comfort levels for occupants.
The benefits go beyond cost savings
This high-tech makeover would also contribute to the UK’s net zero targets by reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 1.43 million tonnes annually.
According to a recent poll by Vodafone UK, the public overwhelmingly supports this initiative. It revealed that 73% of people believe reaching net zero targets is important, and 66% are unaware of the positive impact technology can have on building energy usage.
Delivering a nationwide 5G network
Vodafone UK is committed to leading the charge. As part of their proposed merger with Three UK, they’ve pledged to deliver a nationwide 5G network, with a focus on reaching every school and hospital by 2030.
This is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Taxpayers save money, the environment benefits, and public facilities are modernized. The future of local communities in the UK looks brighter, thanks to the power of 5G technology.
