DIGITAL TWINS AS A TOOL FOR ENHANCING ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY IN URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT
Abstract
This study investigates the transformative potential of digital twins (DTs) as a tool for enhancing the economic efficiency of urban infrastructure management, with a specific focus on their applicability in Ukrainian cities facing unique challenges such as post-war reconstruction and limited resources. Grounded in an analysis of global case studies (e.g., Singapore’s Virtual Singapore, Helsinki’s 3D+, Venice’s flood management, Shenzhen’s Mawan Port) and theoretical frameworks, the research demonstrates that DTs, integrated with IoT, AI, GIS, and BIM, enable proactive management of urban systems, including energy, transport, and water infrastructure. By facilitating real-time data synchronization and bidirectional cyber-physical integration, DTs outperform passive digital shadow models, achieving operational cost reductions of 20–30% and improving urban service quality. Notable examples include Shenzhen’s port, saving $5 million annually, and New Mexico’s 15% CO2 emissions reduction through energy optimization. The study identifies key barriers to DT adoption in Ukraine, including technical challenges (data fragmentation, lack of standardization per ISO 23247, cybersecurity vulnerabilities), organizational obstacles (insufficient coordination, limited expertise), and financial constraints (high costs of IoT infrastructure and software, estimated at $10–15 million for initial deployment). To address these, a conceptual framework is proposed, advocating for pilot projects in water and energy sectors, adoption of standardized protocols, public-private partnerships to fund 50% of costs, and integration with platforms like "Diya" to mitigate data fragmentation. These strategies aim to enhance resource efficiency, urban resilience, and sustainable development, while ensuring transparency to build public trust. The framework lays the groundwork for future research into adaptive financing models and national standards to bolster Ukraine’s urban competitiveness in the European context.
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