| Finland | Mapping initiated 2011; Helsinki 3D+ programme ongoing; open data policy from 2012
What was done
Helsinki developed a dimensionally accurate (±20 cm) three-dimensional city information model (Helsinki 3D+) integrating survey data, LiDAR point clouds, aerial photography, and building-level BIM models into a single open platform. The model is published under a Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 licence, making it freely available to citizens, researchers, developers, and other municipalities. An open geographic data portal provides access to datasets via standard interfaces (WMS/WFS) and file distribution. Helsinki uses the model for: solar energy potential analysis (identifying optimal rooftops for photovoltaic installation); flood risk assessment; urban noise modelling; neighbourhood visualisation for public engagement; and tracking progress toward its 2035 net-zero carbon target. The model has been applied by the University of Helsinki and external developers to build third-party applications.
Key Outcomes
- Freely available 3D city model enabling third-party innovation – over 50 external applications developed using the data.
- Public engagement: interactive web portals for major development projects (notably Kalasatama smart district) use the 3D model to enable citizen visualisation and feedback.
- Quantified contribution to decarbonisation planning: solar potential analysis identified 8,000 buildings suitable for photovoltaic installation.
- Data sharing across the Helsinki metropolitan area municipalities, enabling regional planning coherence.
Helsinki recognised internationally for open government data leadership; ranked first in the Open Data Maturity Index (European Data Portal) in multiple years.
Sources
https://www.hel.fi/en/decision-making/information-on-helsinki/maps-and-geospatial-data/helsinki-3d