The Municipality of Trikala, Greece, is demonstrating leadership in urban innovation through its e-Parking system. A mobile application offers a streamlined parking experience for both residents and visitors. Users can conveniently top up their digital wallets, pay for parking in real time, and apply for long-term permits directly from their smartphones. Parking enforcement officers are equipped with a dedicated inspection tool, allowing for real-time monitoring and more efficient regulation.
What distinguishes Trikala’s approach is its commitment to social impact. A portion of the revenue generated by the system is allocated to support low-income households by subsidising their electricity bills. To date, more than 1,500 vulnerable families have benefited from this initiative, with over 2.2 million kilowatt-hours of energy costs offset. The results have been tangible. Traffic congestion has decreased by 32%, parking availability has improved by 50%, and the system has attracted over 21,000 active users. These outcomes reflect not only the system’s operational success but also its broader contribution to urban wellbeing.
Looking ahead, the Municipality plans to integrate e-bike parking into the platform, further advancing its vision of climate neutrality and sustainable urban living. A video demonstration of the system is available on YouTube, offering a closer look at how Trikala is redefining smart mobility. Trikala’s e-Parking system stands as a compelling example of how digital infrastructure can be designed not only for efficiency, but also for inclusivity and environmental responsibility.
Author: Carla Giaume
Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
