REVIEW PAPER
Overview on the role of intelligent urban furniture in improving the energy and environmental quality of public spaces
by
Imed eddine Khelfa 1 
, Fatma Khelifa 2
1 University 8 May 1945 – Guelma, Guelma, Algeria
2 University 8 May 1945 – Guelma, Guelma, Algeria
ABSTRACT
The increasing prevalence of smart street furniture is a testament to the growing number of initiatives and companies that are creating objects connected to photovoltaic technology. They have emerged in a variety of forms, tailored to specific functions and modes of use, within the context of energy transition and technology. These innovations, in a variety of forms and functions, are designed to promote sustainability and address energy and environmental challenges, with the objective of reducing everyday power consumption and improving the planet’s ecological state. This article presents a literature review of the field of street furniture, identifying key advances that have shaped its evolution and integration of innovative and smart technologies. It outlines the diverse types, modes of use, and contributions of street furniture to urban energy and ecological improvement, based on data from previous research. The results demonstrate that this type of furniture is still in development and that its benefits are sometimes of regional or even national importance, due to its contribution to solar energy production and environmental improvement. The range of innovative services offered by this type of furniture varies according to the specific product. These include smart lighting, WiFi connectivity, smartphone charging, illuminated advertising panels and so on. There is a strong focus on ensuring that this furniture is in keeping with the natural environment, with healthy materials, textures and shapes inspired by nature. This is important as the furniture can also act as a symbol of the city.
Keywords: public urban space, intelligent street furniture, energy efficiency, environmental quality, sustainability
HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE
Khelfa I., Khelifa F. (2025). Overview on the role of intelligent urban furniture in improving the energy and environmental quality of public spaces, MAP Social Sciences, 5, 111-121. doi: https://doi.org/10.53880/2744-2454.2025.5.111