Discusses the implications for smart technology in relation to government public policy decisions; this is linked to an Arthur D. Little report which suggests that cities with a higher level of ICT maturity are significantly better at managing issues such as environmental management, infrastructure and education. It is further suggested that ICT plays a huge role in utilising a city’s economic assets and talents. Furthermore, the article discusses the considerable “buzz” around the implementation of smart meters in households over the following years which will transmit instant usage information to the energy providers which allows them to analyse demand and allow more accurate bills to be compiled. Both Erik Almqvist and Wilhelm Lerner are substantially quoted.