The Bavarian capital is set to become a smart city. To achieve this, the Munich Public Utilities (SWM) is building a LoRa (Long Range) network—primarily for connecting sensors—in Munich and the surrounding area. Startups are now being sought to develop data-driven, sustainable, and secure smart city solutions that people can use in their everyday lives and that transform the smart city into an experience for its citizens and visitors. Young companies can leverage the capabilities of SWM's LoRaWAN infrastructure in buildings and public spaces in Munich. Applications for the LoRa Challenge are open until January 18, 2019.
Munich is set to become smarter: thanks to the city-wide LoRa network that Munich's municipal utility company is currently building. "LoRa" stands for long range. LoRa is also a cost-effective and energy-efficient wireless network. It was specifically designed for applications in the Internet of Things (IoT). With the LoRa network, Munich Municipal Utilities aims to open further doors to digitalization and smart city development throughout the city.
The SWM With their extensive supply, telecommunications, and transport networks, they themselves have many potential applications: For example, sensors in tram brake sand pits can regularly report the fill level to the control center. Measuring points in the pipeline network can report irregularities before damage occurs.
The new wireless network can also be used by other companies to integrate their own devices and transmit data reliably and independently.
Smart City: LoRa offers many different applications
LoRa, a technology from the LPWAN (low power wide area network) family, offers users the possibility of connecting battery-operated data sources to the network, such as location services for moving objects such as bicycles, which are equipped with a sensor and report their location at regular intervals.
SWM calls on startups to use the new network
We have SWM Managing Director Dr. Florian Bieberbach talked about the new LoRa network and the challenge:
What added value does the LoRa network offer Munich? What advantages can it generate?
Dr. Bieberbach: Until now, there was no technology that could transmit relatively low data rates with low energy consumption, yet still offer long range, deep penetration, and reliability. LoRa technology has a wide range of applications: Whether it's smart cities, smart metering, smart buildings, modern mobility, Industry 4.0, or simply connecting devices/sensors with each other — LoRaWAN brings benefits to all industries. It is the Network for the Internet of Things — and SWM is providing it in Munich and the region.
What does your business model look like? Who can use LoRa and how?
Dr. BieberbachWe provide a robust, highly available, and secure network. I encourage startups and founders to realize their application ideas and focus on developing their visions. The infrastructure for data transport is available and can be used for a fee. SWM is a well-known and reliable partner for startups: For many decades, we have stood for a secure supply of drinking water, electricity, natural gas, and heat to Munich—and now also for telecommunications.
Startups can submit their ideas until 18 January 2019 Apply to SWM by email.
