Morteza Bakhshi Germi - PhD student of urban planning at Azad University, Tabriz branch
Saeed Najafi - PhD student of urban planning at Azad University, Tabriz branch
Maryam Heidary Fononi - PhD student of urban planning at Azad University, marand branch

This article provides a comprehensive review of smart cities and their role in promoting energy efficiency, urban sustainability, and liveability. The research question revolves around understanding the key components of smart city initiatives and their implications for urban environments. A literature review was conducted to explore various aspects of smart cities, energy efficiency, data-driven approaches, challenges, opportunities, and best practices. The findings reveal that smart city technologies have the potential to significantly improve energy efficiency and urban sustainability by integrating innovative solutions, fostering collaboration, and leveraging data-driven decision-making. However, there are barriers to implementation, including financial, technical, and regulatory challenges. The article concludes by offering policy recommendations and best practices based on lessons learned from successful smart city projects and emphasizes the need for continuous innovation and collaboration for sustainable urban development.

smart cities, energy efficiency, urban sustainability, liveability, data-driven approaches, policy recommendations, best practices