Silje Moan

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Love all things proptech? Get ahead on building automation with Kiona. On our blog, you will find content on automation suitable for newcomers and tech-savvy partners. Find blog posts, use cases and videos on everything from systems automation, machine learning and AI to Smart functions, Rest API, drivers and IoT for use in technical installations.

Building Automation

<p>Smart buildings need communication, and open-source data tagging standards make that communication seamless. Securing the interoperability of components, no matter who developed the software or manufactured the devices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-smart-buildings-need-data-tagging-standards">Why smart buildings need data tagging standards</h2>



<p>The increase in smart technology in built environments (aka Proptech)&nbsp;creates vast amounts of data. For this data to be useful, it must be accessible to all the linked systems and devices in a building. Standardizing the labeling of building components with a shared vocabulary makes this possible.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-standardized-data-tagging">Benefits of standardized data tagging</h2>



<p>Data tagging standards make data flow more quickly and efficiently, from their sources to controllers and between interrelated equipment. Standardized tagging and open-source data models enable better collaboration between subsystems and external data sources while facilitating data flow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By standardizing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semantic_data_model" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semantic data models</a> and web services, it becomes much easier to unlock value from the data generated by our smart devices.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Here are the top reasons why you should start using tagging standards in smart buildings:</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-data-quality">Improved data quality</h4>



<p>Data tagging standards ensure your data is labeled and categorized accurately and consistently. Reducing errors and inconsistencies that can pop up when data is labeled manually. Improving data quality will, for example:</p>



<ul>
<li>Help define the amount of data necessary to prepare new data sources.</li>



<li>Allow you to find data more efficiently so it can be easily accessed when needed.</li>



<li>Filter out unusable data or flag poor-quality data to secure better decision-making, including when utilizing machine learning algorithms.</li>



<li>Improve the quality of big data gathered and allow building automation experts to use that unstructured and partially structured big data more readily.</li>
</ul>





<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-interoperability">Increased interoperability</h4>



<p>Boost scalability by streamlining the integration of new software or devices. Data can be shared and analyzed across different systems and applications<ins>,</ins> and smart building systems can communicate more effectively with each other.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-better-analytics">Better analytics</h4>



<p>Help building managers understand classifications and relationships between building equipment. Accurate and consistent data labeling allows for more effective data analysis and helps us gain insights into energy usage, occupancy patterns, and other essential metrics.&nbsp;</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facilitates-automation">Facilitates automation</h4>



<p>By enabling smart building systems to recognize and respond to different types of data automatically, we are allowing for greater automation and efficiency in building operations.</p>





<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-fault-detection-and-maintenance">Improved fault detection and maintenance</h4>



<p>Significantly&nbsp;improve building fault detection and diagnostics capabilities. Labeling and categorizing data from various systems makes identifying and diagnosing system malfunctions or irregularities in their regular operation easier.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It also allows for implementing advanced analytics (<a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a>) and machine learning algorithms (<a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/edge-ai">Edge AI</a>) to detect patterns and anomalies in the data. The early identification of equipment faults, predictive maintenance, and proactive resolution of issues result in improved system reliability, reduced downtime, and optimized maintenance schedules.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-proofing">Future-proofing</h4>



<p>Sticking to data tagging standards ensures we build smart building systems with a shared framework. Integrating new devices and systems becomes easier and essentially future-proofing the building's technology infrastructure. Making sure it can adapt and evolve as new technologies emerge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-drawbacks">Potential drawbacks</h2>



<p>Implementing data tagging standards in smart buildings can be complex and time-consuming, requiring significant resources and retrofitting efforts. Widespread industry adoption and support, ongoing maintenance and updates, training requirements, and scalability considerations are potential challenges to consider. Careful planning and evaluation of resources and industry support are necessary for successful implementation.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-open-source-standards-exist-for-building-automation-and-iot-today">What open-source standards exist for building automation and IoT today?</h2>



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<p><a href="https://bacnet.org/about-bacnet-standard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>BACnet</strong></a>&nbsp;is an open standard protocol for building automation and control networks that has been with us since the late 80s. Although primarily a communication protocol, it also includes a standardized data model. This data model can represent various building systems, such as HVAC, lighting, access control, etc. BACnet enables interoperability and integration between different building automation systems and devices. BACnet became ASHRAE/ANSI Standard 135 in 1995 and ISO 16484-5 in 2003.</p>
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<p><a href="https://project-haystack.org/about" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Project Haystack</strong></a>&nbsp;seeks to standardize the way semantic tagging and data modeling are used in smart buildings for various applications, including HVAC, power management, lighting, shading, metering, fire detection, security, access control, CCTV, water leak detection, space management, asset management, etc. The project is managed using the Academic Free License 3.0.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>The <a href="https://brickschema.org/about/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Brick Schema</strong></a> is a comprehensive set of tags and relationships that describe various building elements. These elements include rooms, HVAC systems, and sensors. Brick is free and open-sourced under the BSD 3-Clause license.</p>
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<p>Other notable open-source initiatives are the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sedona-alliance.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sedona Framework</a>, a cross-platform software framework for device-to-device communication in building automation systems, and HyperCat, mainly focused on IoT in general. Still, it can also be applied to smart buildings.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-kiona-use-tagging-standards">How does Kiona use tagging standards?</h2>



<p>Our building integration system, Web Port, uses customizable tagging standards to perform a wide range of automated connections.</p>



<p>With seamless integration and automation within smart buildings, system integrators can define and configure their tags and data models. Web Port's tagging system is flexible. It allows users to create a shared language for their building and equipment. This makes it simpler to connect and exchange data between different systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition to customizable tagging, Web Port offers a visual programming interface called Blockly. This interface allows users to create custom automation logic and workflows by visually connecting code blocks. Blockly enables users to use data tagging standards to define triggers, conditions, and actions. This allows them to customize automation scenarios according to their specific needs.</p>

Why you should use data tagging standards in smart buildings

Sara Hampf

Contact us

Contact your local sales or energy expert for more information

Edge

<p>This shift is a societal challenge that affects all kinds of connected technologies. Products such as elevators, social alarms, agricultural systems, heat pumps, control equipment, and more will stop working <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/shut-down-of-2g-and-3g-networks/">when 2G and 3G networks go down</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-this-mean-for-you-as-a-property-owner">What does this mean for you as a property owner?</h2>



<p>If you have a Kiona system (Edge) installed in your properties based on old technology, you must upgrade to Kiona Hub 2.0 to ensure continued operation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>We have developed Hub 2.0 to work with LTE/4G, which means a safer and faster mobile internet experience and ensures a smooth transition after the phase-out.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Edge Hub 2.0 is the 4th generation wireless controller and IoT access point for real estate.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The new features include:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</h3>



<ul>
<li>&nbsp; LTE/4G connectivity</li>



<li>&nbsp; Dual wM-Bus receivers for simultaneous reception of C/T and S mode.</li>



<li>&nbsp; Use with any brands of sensors or meters that are OMS compliant.</li>



<li>&nbsp; Next-generation module with a faster processor, more RAM, and flash memory.</li>



<li>&nbsp; Easier troubleshooting and thus more efficient support in case of problems in your heating station.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Place your order in good time</h2>



<p>Be sure to contact us as soon as possible to get more information about this upgrade and to secure the number of Hub 2.0 you need for your properties.&nbsp;</p>

Time to act and update to LTE/4G – 2G and 3G networks will shut down

Joakim Nilén

WebPort supportpage

Get started - learn more about WebPort Cloud and Open VPN

Web Port

<p></p>



<p>At Kiona, safety is a priority. With more than 55,000 connected buildings, the importance of workin safely is high. We always strive to find secure solutions that help our partners, customers, and of course ourselves.</p>



<p>Therefore we are now launching a cloud tool that enables easy configuration of OpenVPN together with <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Web Port Cloud</a>, where any router with support for OpenVPN can be used. The configuration is facilitated through an interface directly in Web Port Cloud.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/04/Web-Port-Devices-eng.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-by-using-openvpn-you-get">By using OpenVPN you get:</h3>



<ul>
<li>A secure connection of your properties to the Web Port Cloud.</li>



<li>Web-based configuration directly in Web Port</li>



<li>Ability to give contractors access for remote assistance</li>



<li>No need for fixed public IP addresses in the property</li>



<li>Predictable costs</li>



<li></li>
</ul>



<p>On our <a href="https://iwmac.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/sections/9181338055324-Web-Port-Cloud" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supportpage </a>you will find more information, instructions and videos to help you get started. </p>



<p><strong>NOTE! Only administrators have access to the configuration tool.</strong></p>

Web Port cloud - secure data-storage and predictable costs

Maria Sotberg

Trond-Øystein Bjørnnes

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Looking for a demo of one of our solutions?

Build your knowledge in building management. On our blog, you will find content on building management suitable for newcomers and tech-savvy partners. Find blog posts, use cases and videos on everything from technical systems integration, HMI and SCADA solutions, alarm monitoring, zone control, lighting, heating, ventilation and air quality. Just as relevant for commercial buildings, public works and industrial buildings as for housing cooperatives or multi-residential properties.

Building Management

<p>Through our partners and customers, we learn more and more about how to contribute to good and profitable climate solutions. And in fact, many buildings are already connected to our systems – almost 60,000 today. Giving us the experience base and data available to provide plenty of input and ideas for further development of technology and growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-kiona-delivers-today">What Kiona delivers today</h2>



<p>We deliver central operating systems for industry, commercial buildings, HORECA (food industry and logistics), retail, and supermarkets of all shapes and sizes.</p>



<p>"We have our <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a> product with 23 years in the industry, and we have <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a>, which saw the light of day in 2009. More than 10,000 buildings are now connected to one of our SCADA systems to secure easy operation monitoring at their facilities."</p>



<p>"On the energy and environmental side, we have <a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a>, a comprehensive cloud-based analysis tool for everything from energy and indoor climate to waste management and more, established in over 35,000 buildings, primarily in the Nordics and Germany," says Trond-Øystein.</p>



<p>In addition, we have <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge</a>, which is an advanced platform for managing heating in residential buildings. The technology uses artificial intelligence (AI) to find the most optimal control for housing cooperatives. Edge is running on thousands of buildings across the Nordic countries.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-diverse-collection-of-expertise">A diverse collection of expertise</h2>



<p>Our people have backgrounds from many different fields and bring a lot of diverse experiences to the table.</p>



<p>"We have those who come straight from education and those who have worked in the field for many years. Today, we have employees with experience as electricians, plumbers, automation engineers, or within ventilation-, IT- and energy consulting. We have over 150 employees in offices across seven countries."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-network-with-over-200-partners">Extensive network with over 200+ partners</h2>



<p>Our customers are <a href="https://kiona.com/our-partners/">certified partner companies</a> in all technical disciplines spread across Europe.</p>



<p>"Our most important customers are those who use our systems daily. These are often energy advisors and operations personnel who use one of our solutions to monitor energy usage, for instance. The end customer's service partners within ventilation, refrigeration, or heating use our systems for troubleshooting and optimization in daily operations. Other users include management companies, technical management, and operations managers," Trond-Øystein continues.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expectations-for-the-future">Expectations for the future</h2>



<p>Trond-Øystein is a dedicated professional with many views on developing technology, central operations control, Proptech, and AI.</p>



<p>"I expect an increased focus on simplified installation and faster completion, more use of standard solutions, wireless technology, and open systems. We believe this is what the industry needs as buildings become more and more complicated. The implementation of projects must be faster, and it must be possible to operate and change systems continuously."</p>



<p>"A prerequisite for achieving this is more openness and easier access to data. I also expect more integration with many different third-party systems such as booking systems, BIM (Building Information Modeling), EMS (Energy Management Systems), internal data systems, and more."</p>



<p>He points out that you hear a lot of talk about <a href="https://cloud.google.com/learn/artificial-intelligence-vs-machine-learning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI and Machine learning</a>, which has also become part of everyday life in our industry. More and more buildings are now running on different AI models, and we believe it can help remove more of the manual processes we have today and, not least, remove the instability in operations. That would mean more consistent temperatures in the right place at the right time – and at the right price.</p>



<p>"Many companies are already working on their models, and Kiona is no exception; we are currently running pilots on our ML model and are excited to see what else 2023 will bring," Trond-Øystein concludes.</p>

Operation monitoring in the right place at the right time – and at the right price

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Get to grips with energy management. On our blog, you will find energy optimization and management content suitable for novices and energy experts. Find blog posts, use cases and videos on energy analysis, energy optimization, and reporting, just as relevant for commercial buildings, public works and industrial buildings as for housing cooperatives or multi-residential properties.

Energy Management

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-a-clear-overview-of-your-energy-usage">Get a clear overview of your energy usage.</h2>



<p>Contrary to popular belief, energy audits are not a waste of time and are quite beneficial. A proper audit provides a clear overview of your building's current energy usage, delivering insights into the areas that might be a financial drain in an easily understandable way.</p>



<p>Nailing down the places where you are wasting energy will save you money in the long term. The audit's findings can help you create a roadmap to reduce energy usage, save money, and decrease your carbon footprint. The more detailed, the better: an effective audit is as extensive as possible, taking everything into account; the building's interior, exterior, fixtures, and equipment - to determine how these systems interact.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What exactly is an energy audit?</h2>





<p>An energy audit can significantly vary in size. You can perform audits on a single building or your whole business enterprise. In this text, we are taking a high-level look at the steps of an audit. Systematically mapping a building's or business' energy use will identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Typically we talk about two different types of audits:</h3>



<ul>
<li>A <span style="text-decoration: underline;">preliminary energy audit</span>, sometimes called a walkthrough audit, involves walking around your business premises to identify your energy usage and performance. This audit only requires a little measurement or data collection and doesn't take much time. However, it can reveal opportunities to become more energy efficient, provide qualitative analyses of where you can save energy, and estimate how much money you could save by implementing new measures.</li>



<li>Investment-grade or <span style="text-decoration: underline;">detailed energy audits</span> provide more extensive and precise data on various energy systems, such as pumps, fans, compressed air, and steam. These audits require more time than preliminary energy audits and take place over an extended period to provide comprehensive energy consumption reports. They typically offer a more precise image of your energy performance, allowing more specific recommendations for improvements.</li>
</ul>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Are you looking to get an energy certificate?</strong> </h3>



<p>Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), defined by the European Commission, provide information to consumers on buildings they plan to purchase or rent. They include an energy performance rating and recommendations for cost-effective improvements. EU countries use independent control systems for energy performance certificates and regular inspection of heating and air-conditioning systems. Some countries opted for&nbsp;alternative measures&nbsp;to regular inspection regimes of heating and air-conditioning systems.</p>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.bpie.eu/publication/energy-performance-certificates-across-the-eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find a list of energy performance certificates from across the EU at BPIE (Buildings Performance Institute Europe).</a></li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The process in 7 steps<strong></strong></h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-prepare-for-the-audit">1.&nbsp; Prepare for the audit</h3>



<p>Gather information about the building, such as its age, square footage, occupancy patterns, and energy usage history. You can get this information through bills, equipment specifications, and other records.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-walkthrough-inspection">2.&nbsp; Walkthrough inspection<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Conduct a visual inspection of the building to identify potential energy-saving opportunities. Look for air leaks, insulation levels, lighting systems, HVAC equipment, and other energy-using systems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-energy-consumption-analysis">3.&nbsp; Energy consumption analysis<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Analyze the building's energy consumption data to identify patterns and trends in energy use. This can be done smoothly with <a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet's</a> powerful reporting. It can also be achieved through billing data or other methods.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-equipment-and-systems-assessment">4.&nbsp; Equipment and systems assessment<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Assess the energy-using equipment and systems in the building, such as HVAC, lighting, and appliances. Look for inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-recommendations">5.&nbsp; Recommendations<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Based on the energy audit findings, provide recommendations for energy-saving measures that can be implemented in the building. These may include installing energy-efficient equipment, improving insulation, and optimizing lighting and HVAC controls.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-implementation">6.&nbsp; Implementation<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Work with building management and maintenance personnel to implement the recommended energy-saving measures.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-monitoring-and-evaluation">7.&nbsp; Monitoring and evaluation<strong></strong></h3>



<p>Monitor the building's energy use and evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented measures. Make adjustments as necessary and continue to look for additional opportunities for improvement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-step-is-the-hardest">The first step is the hardest<strong></strong></h2>



<p>Conducting an energy audit is an essential first step in reducing <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/the-thief-lurking-in-your-building-indirect-energy-use">indirect energy use in a building</a> and can help building managers identify opportunities for improvement and lower energy costs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Stay ahead of your competition and develop a more sustainable business model through energy auditing. Demonstrate your comprehension of energy efficiency and illustrate your business's willingness to adapt. We recommend you engage professional energy auditors for a comprehensive energy audit. <a href="https://kiona.com/our-partners">Browsing our extensive Partner network is a great place to start.</a></p>

How to conduct an energy audit of a building

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Looking to be proactive from anywhere – anytime?

<p>"Houston, we've had a problem”.</p>



<p>On 13 April 1970, the world held its breath as the Apollo 13 spacecraft hurtled toward the moon. With oxygen supplies leaking into space, there was little time to make critical decisions. By adding live telemetry data from the physical spacecraft to their digital copy, Mission Control could simulate different strategies and bring the crew safely back to Earth.</p>



<p>The incident was a near-disaster but also a triumph of human resilience. And believe it or not: It's widely believed that the very first digital twin was used in conjunction with the <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/explore/stories/apollo-missions/apollo-13" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apollo 13 mission</a> – although it wasn't called a "digital twin" at that time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-digital-twin">What is a digital twin?</h2>



<p>In short, a digital twin is a virtual copy of a physical object that exists in the real world, just like NASA's physical spacecraft, and its digital model, joined together with the available live data.</p>



<p>Today, the technology has expanded to other industries, including construction and building management.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-even-twins-are-different-geometric-vs-digital">Even twins are different: Geometric vs. Digital</h2>



<p>To make a digital twin, you need to have a physical object (in our case, a building) that you recreate in a 2D or 3D model. But – simply making this digital model doesn't make the data file a digital twin. What we are talking about here is a geometric twin. Remember: we're still missing NASAs "live data."</p>



<p>But what if you attach sensors to the building so that if something changes, the digital copy changes too? Then you're getting closer.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/06/SM_3_english-1024x576.png" alt="Digital twin in IWMAC" class="wp-image-40316"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>See the status of your refrigeration systems live in <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a>, and make changes to the digital copy that transfer to real life.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Let's look at an example: We create a digital model of an office building with all the rooms, doors, and technical equipment installed. To keep the twin alive and make it "smart", we install sensors in the building. The sensors pick up fluctuations in temperature and air quality in each room. It can also alert us when something happens to the power grid or ventilation system.</p>





<p>And just like that, a digital twin has been created.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/06/Temp_Eng_1920x1080-1024x577.png" alt="Digital twin in Edge, a 3D rendering of a building" class="wp-image-40325"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em><a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge's</a> 3D mockup of a building</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-you-use-it-for">What can you use it for?</h2>



<p>As the twin develops, energy use and operations can become increasingly autonomous and self-governing.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-monitoring-and-visualization">1. Monitoring and visualization</h3>



<p>A digital twin allows you to monitor and visualize real-time data from sensors and other sources. This can include information about temperature, humidity, energy usage, and more. By visualizing this data in a 2D or 3D model of the building, you get real-time analytics and insight into how the building is used and performs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-predictive-maintenance">2. Predictive maintenance</h3>



<p>If you're spending a lot of your time doing inspections (to hopefully catch a problem) or doing firefighting by reacting when faults have already happened; there is a simpler way.</p>



<p>By analyzing the incoming data, the twin can predict maintenance needs before they become major issues.</p>





<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-what-if-scenarios">3. What-if scenarios</h3>



<p>A digital twin can simulate different scenarios, such as changes to the building's layout, external impacts, or the addition of new systems and equipment. By simulating these scenarios in the digital twin, you can make sure that the measures and changes you are implementing are for the better.</p>

The digital twin – the bridge between the physical and the digital

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Learn how to set up MFA for your Kiona account

<p>Estimates show that a cyberattack happens every 44 seconds throughout the day. That is a scary figure, and of course, the impact of an attack can be massive for companies, regardless of their size. The cost of a cyberattack on your company/organization will be extremely high, not to mention the time and effort it takes to recover from an attack. It may also lead to a loss of the trust your customers have in you. In the end, it's not worth it.</p>



<p>Most businesses have online systems that allow users to log on to do their shopping and banking, get the status of their building electricity use, etc. Usernames and passwords are essential, but on their own, they can be vulnerable and stolen by third parties or used in cyberattacks.</p>



<p>You might not even know that your data has been compromised as it is stored in a third-party solution that just got hacked.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-multi-factor-authentication-mfa-work">How does Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) work?</h2>



<p>MFA asks the user to identify themselves by more than a username and password when logging on to a new smartphone, online account, or VPN. The most common way is with one-time passwords. These are 4–8-digit codes that you receive via e-mail, SMS, or a mobile app.</p>



<p>MFA reduces the risk of a successful cyberattack and helps companies and individuals to protect their information.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/06/News-ticker-MFA-authenticationEN-1024x512.png" alt="Multi-factor authentication (MFA) at Kiona"/></figure>



<p>Consider MFA like a thumbprint or physical hardware key that can give you confidence that your organization will stay safe from cybercriminals.</p>



<p>By introducing MFA – Multi-Factor Authentication, you add an additional layer of security to protect your company.</p>



<p>At Kiona, security is highly important, and <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/simplified-login-and-strengthened-security-sso">MFA is integrated into all our solutions</a>, making your decision to invest in our platforms safe.</p>

Add an additional layer of security by introducing MFA - Multi-Factor Authentication

Want to stay on top of your air quality? Check our solutions for multi-residential properties.

<p>Living in an apartment or building with a poor indoor climate can be an uncomfortable and unhealthy experience. A <a href="https://www.evia.eu/indoor-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy indoor climate</a> is simply a necessary luxury. Without it, numerous health problems can arise, from headaches and fatigue to annoying allergies.</p>



<p>In the old days, there was hardly a home free from draughts. You'd better have a pair of really good socks to keep warm. Nowadays, if you live in a newer apartment or building, we have tight moldings and windows and do what we can to save energy.</p>



<p>And if you're cold, you can just turn up the radiator. Or?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-heating-system">Understanding the heating system</h2>





<p>Most apartments are equipped with radiators that heat the rooms. When it is cold outside, and the elements are on, they are warm at the top and cool at the bottom. This is because they cool down when heat is released into the room. The warm air rises from the radiator and warms the cold air from the windows, thus preventing cold drafts.</p>



<p>To maintain a constant temperature, radiators are usually equipped with thermostats, which sense the temperature and automatically regulate whether more or less heat is needed. Usually, the thermostats are set to maintain a temperature of around 20-22°C in living rooms, which most people find pleasing. If it gets warmer, the heat supply is cut off; if it gets colder, more heat is released.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hot-summer-day-or-freezing-cold-winter-weather">Hot summer day or freezing cold winter weather?</h2>



<p>The heating system in your apartment or building also depends on outdoor temperature variations. When there is a rapid change in the outdoor temperature, the indoor climate may be unable to keep up. This means that maintaining an even indoor temperature can be challenging during spring and autumn.</p>



<p>With <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge">Edge</a> installed at your building association, the system automatically considers the variations of the external impact – and controls proactively. This way, the indoor climate is adapted in advance, creating a more even indoor climate across apartments.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-a-better-indoor-environment">Tips for a better indoor environment</h2>



<p>If you're looking to improve the air in your living space, here are a few tips:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-are-the-elements-on">1. Are the elements on?</h3>



<p>Check that the thermostats on the elements are not turned off to avoid spending unnecessary energy on extreme heating. A lower temperature baseline is better to keep the temperature more balanced over time.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-keep-ventilation-hatches-and-outdoor-air-vents-open">2. Keep ventilation hatches and outdoor air vents open</h3>



<p>Houses are built to have a continuous circulation of air. Therefore, many apartments have fresh air vents in the walls or windows. Closed vents mean that air enters the apartment in the wrong way. This, in turn, can cause unwanted smells from a neighboring apartment or a cold draft. In the worst case, you may have problems with moisture and mold.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-furnish-correctly">3. Furnish correctly</h3>



<p>The heat from the radiator needs free space to work. If a sofa or other large furniture is placed in front of your radiators, the heat will not reach the room. The same goes for large, long curtains.</p>



<p>If a table is placed next to the window, the cold draft is led into the room, and the radiator only heats the air under the table. If you want to furnish against a radiator, create some space.</p>



<p>The rule of thumb is that what you can see from a radiator can also warm you from where you are standing.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-want-to-let-in-fresh-air-do-it-quickly">4. Want to let in fresh air? Do it quickly.</h3>



<p>Ventilate quickly and remember to keep windows and doors closed; otherwise, you risk cold floors that take a long time to warm up again. If you want to bring in fresh air, it is better to ventilate with a cross draft for five minutes than to leave the windows open for a longer period.</p>



<p>This way, you get fresh air into the apartment without cooling it down completely, and you also get the temperature up faster afterward.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/06/Woman-opening-window-dangrytsky-GettyImages-1400x800-1.jpg" alt="Woman opening windows for quick ventilation." class="wp-image-39384"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Get the fresh air in by opening the windows wide for a couple of minutes. Photo by Dangrystky / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-clean-valves-regularly">5. Clean valves regularly</h3>



<p>Without changing the setting, make sure to clean the valves on your radiators regularly. The same goes for the grease filter in the cooker hood. Check that the cooker hood is turned off or set at a lower setting when not used, as it will draw in more cold air.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-if-it-still-doesn-t-help">If it still doesn't help</h2>



<p>Sometimes air or dirt gets into the heating system, and the elements don't work correctly. In some cases, the elements may need to be aired to work properly. If you have followed our tips but still feel too hot or too cold, we recommend checking your apartment's temperature first.</p>



<p>Measure the temperature one meter from the outer wall and about one meter from the floor. Contact the responsible person in your board or a manager for further action if you still experience an abnormal temperature.</p>

Indoor climate: too humid, dry or stuffy?

Explore our products and solutions for building management

<p>With the rise of Proptech, buildings are becoming increasingly interconnected through networks and IoT devices – and generate vast quantities of data. While this data can improve facility operations and efficiency, it also introduces big security risks if not properly safeguarded.</p>



<p>Consider the following scenario: Unauthorized individuals have managed to gain initial access to a system and gradually escalated their privileges through careful maneuvering, thus obtaining increasingly broader access to systems and sensitive data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-cybersecurity-a-question-for-buildings">Why is cybersecurity a question for buildings?</h2>



<p>Every organization today stores sensitive data in some form or another. Smart buildings require building owners to understand the organization's data security needs as operations move to the cloud. Building systems are also collecting and storing more data than before – becoming even more attractive to attackers.</p>



<p>"It goes beyond the mere loss of data or the immediate financial impact of mitigating or containing an attack. The true reality is far more complex, and every organization must recognize the combined risks associated with reputational damage. Such damage can not only jeopardize new contract opportunities but also impact existing contractual agreements," says John-Helge Gantz, Information Security Manager at Kiona.</p>



<p>"Moreover, the consequences of non-compliance with or breaches of data protection regulations can have a profound and lasting impact on the overall financial sustainability of an organization."</p>





<p>Therefore, building owners need control over who can access data and how it is stored and protected by, for instance, third parties.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-installation-or-cloud-solution">Local installation or cloud solution?</h2>



<p>One common question when it comes to data security in buildings is whether it is better to use a local installation or a cloud-based solution. The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Both options have pros and cons, and the security of each will depend on how well they are configured and maintained.</p>



<p>To compare the two, you have to work on the assumption that you have a local installation that is perfectly configured and a cloud solution that is perfectly configured. In that case, there is no big difference in basic security. It all comes down to how you handle moving from only managing technical equipment to taking on the IT role.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-you-work-with-security-in-your-facility">How can you work with security in your facility?</h2>



<p>With more than 55 000 buildings connected, we generate several billion data points every day, so it's safe to say cyber security is vital to us.</p>





<p>Implementing access control, using strong encryption to protect data, regularly updating software (and patching vulnerabilities), and training employees on best practices for data security, are some of the efforts you should pay attention to at your end.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-solution-is-more-secure-than-the-weakest-link">No solution is more secure than the weakest link</h3>



<p>And the weakest link is typically us humans. That's why it's essential to keep access control in mind. This will help ensure that only authorized personnel have access to your building's data and that a breach doesn't come from one of your passwords being found in a leak. To keep the bad guys out – you need a password strategy.</p>



<p>By implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), you add an additional layer of security. This reduces the system's likelihood of breaches based on human interactions, emotions, and blind trust.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/05/John-Helge-office-AI-generated-1024x611.jpg" alt="AI generated photo of office in a building" class="wp-image-38855"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A picture is worth a thousand words, but with new tools, you can't be sure that what you see is the truth. The office in the background is entirely generated by AI. The flowers on the desk never existed. In the red shirt, John-Helge is real and works daily with security issues at Kiona.</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-processing-agreements-dpa">Data processing agreements (DPA)</h3>





<p>The <a href="https://gdpr.eu/what-is-gdpr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)</a> in Europe, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and other regulations have increased the focus on protecting personal data. And as a building owner who shares data with others, the division of responsibilities must be clear.</p>



<p>With a Data Processing Agreement based on the GDPR regulations, you have a secure starting point for an agreement with a supplier and a good knowledge of how data is handled.</p>



<p>A DPA establishes clear guidelines for a supplier's handling, storage, and data processing. It ensures that each party understands its responsibilities for data protection and implements security measures to prevent loss or misuse of data.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimize-risk-with-regular-updates">Minimize risk with regular updates</h3>



<p>Finally, it's important to keep your software up to date. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities, so by keeping your software up to date, you can make sure that your building's data is as safe as possible.</p>



<p>Remember to stay aware of your exposure and attack surfaces. When you minimize the organization's exposure, you also decrease the threats and risks it faces.</p>

The building as a data source

Håvard Sæther

Carl-Fredrik Bang

Apply today

Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference. Submit your application now and let your expertise shine!

Looking for an exciting new job opportunity? Check out available job postings at Kiona.

Job listing

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-architect">Solution Architect</h2>



<p><strong>Employment</strong>: Consulting assignment<br><strong>Start date</strong>: 2023<br><strong>Location</strong>: Trondheim, Norway<br><strong>Recruiting manager</strong>:<br>Carl-Fredrik Bang, CTO</p>



<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="mailto:hr@kiona.com">Apply today</a></div>




<p>As a key team member, you will dive into our SaaS offerings, consisting of four products developed on four distinct platforms and technology stacks. Your ingenuity will be tested as you uncover hidden opportunities for efficiency, scalability, maintainability, growth, and evolution across the products. Put it all together in a roadmap, where you have laid out the step-by-step journey we should take to reach the goal, with optimal cost-benefit for each step.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-objectives">Key objectives</h2>



<p>The success of our SaaS solution hinges on achieving specific objectives that are fundamental to its growth and optimization. As a Solution Architect, you will be at the forefront of these objectives, driving the evolution and effectiveness of our solution. Let's delve into the key objectives that await you:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-solution-documentation">1. Solution documentation</h3>



<ul type="1">
<li>Thoroughly document the existing SaaS solution's architecture, design principles, and technical specifications, including each product's platform and technology stack details.</li>



<li>Create visual diagrams, flowcharts, or other supporting materials to aid in understanding the current solution and proposed roadmap.</li>



<li>Maintain accurate records of all documentation and ensure it is easily accessible for future reference.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-evaluation-of-the-current-solution">2. Evaluation of the current solution</h3>



<ul type="1">
<li>Analyze each product's performance, scalability, and reliability within the solution.</li>



<li>Identify any bottlenecks, limitations, or architectural gaps that may impede the solution's effectiveness.</li>



<li>Assess the integration capabilities and interoperability among the four products.</li>



<li>Evaluate the security measures implemented within the solution and identify potential vulnerabilities or improvement areas.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-future-roadmap-and-recommendations">3. Future roadmap and recommendations</h3>



<ul type="1">
<li>Based on the evaluation and stakeholder input, create a comprehensive roadmap outlining the steps required to enhance the current solution.</li>



<li>Propose architectural improvements, such as consolidating technology stacks, standardizing development practices, or implementing modern frameworks.</li>



<li>Suggest strategies for optimizing performance, scalability, and maintainability.</li>



<li>Provide recommendations for integrating the four products more seamlessly and efficiently.</li>



<li>Identify opportunities to leverage emerging technologies or industry best practices to future-proof the solution.</li>



<li>Estimate each recommendation's resource requirements, timeline, and potential risks.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prerequisites">Prerequisites</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stakeholder engagement</h3>



<ul type="1">
<li>Collaborate with development teams, the Information Security Manager, product managers, and other stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the solutions, requirements, pain points, and future business goals.</li>



<li>Conduct interviews and workshops to gather feedback and insights from key stakeholders.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-qualifications-and-skills">Qualifications and skills</h3>



<ul type="1">
<li>Extensive experience as a Solution Architect, preferably in SaaS environments.</li>



<li>Strong knowledge of various platforms, technology stacks, and architectural patterns.</li>



<li>Proficient in evaluating and assessing software solutions' performance, scalability, and security.</li>



<li>Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.</li>



<li>Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.</li>



<li>Experience with product integration and interoperability.</li>



<li>Familiarity with emerging technologies and industry trends.</li>



<li>Project management skills, including estimating resource requirements and managing timelines effectively.</li>
</ul>



<p>Together, we will embark on an exciting journey, working towards unlocking the full potential of our innovative SaaS solution. We will drive efficiency, scalability, maintainability, and growth, ensuring our solution remains at the forefront of the industry. Join us on this transformative path as we make a lasting impact.</p>

Solution Architect – Consulting Assignment

Marcus Sundberg

Get in touch!

Want to know more about how you can improve your data collection?

<p>There are several ways to collect measurement values from your buildings. At the same time, different meters may have various owners. The property owner owns some meters, and others can be held, for example, by the municipality or the district heating supplier. Many different rules and regulations make it challenging to influence which meter is placed on your property.</p>



<p>Collecting this building data raises several questions, but managing and keeping statistics on values from meters shouldn't be difficult. As a Kiona customer or partner, you have several ways to collect data – so that you are ready for any scenario and variant of meter on the market.</p>





<p><a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet">With Energinet, you get multiple ways to collect data.</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Here are the most common practices for collecting measured values from meters</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manual-reading-and-enrollment">Manual reading and enrollment</h3>



<p>Manual reading is a standard method still used by many, where you write off meter readings in, for example, an Excel sheet. Afterward, you need to manually enter these numbers in the system that you use for your energy monitoring.</p>



<p>When working this way, you should be aware that the risk of human error is high, like entering the wrong number somewhere. The consumption also reflects the time when the reading takes place, and it can easily be many hours spent going around buildings and noting meter readings.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-analog-equipment">What about analog equipment?</h3>



<p>Still, many meters on the market have no communication and thus are entirely analog. These meters are not possible to connect and must be read manually. Collecting data from these old-school meters can be made smoother by logging them with digital tools, like an app on your phone or tablet.</p>





<ul>
<li>Get the Energinet Go mobile app for manual meter readings. With the app, you can manually read the meter and directly enter the figures on your mobile. In the app, you have assigned collection responsibility, timespan for when to read the meter, and meter position to make the collection round more manageable and time effective. The app also helps you prevent erroneous readings.</li>



<li>You can also print a QR code for a specific meter and attach it to it. You can then scan the code and enter the numbers that you read. Scan and record in a flash.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imports-from-the-utility-companies">Imports from the utility companies</h3>



<p>If you have connected meters, you have greater opportunities to work digitally. A common way of working is gathering consumption statistics from your utility company.</p>



<p>We help to integrate and retrieve utility data directly from your supplier, usually in the form of 15-minute or hourly values, so that you don't have to log in manually and retrieve values to get your statistics. Get data via Elhub, DataHub, API, SFTP, or files sent by e-mail. Use any of our many existing import formats or set up your own import format with the format generator.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-automatic-meter-collection">Automatic meter collection</h3>



<p>With hardware and Energinet, we can collect data directly from connectable meters that communicate with HAN, M-bus, or Wireless M-bus (wM-bus). A connected meter means more than just consumption statistics. In addition, we can get data such as flow, temperatures, and instantaneous power – creating a digital process with high-resolution measurement values and a lot of data.</p>



<p>All our solutions collect data from many different brands of meters on the market, such as Carlo Gavazzi, B meters, Kamstrup, Sontex, and Diehl. And with our powerful energy management and analysis solution, Energinet, there is no limit on what kind of data can be collected and made useful.</p>



<span class="hs-cta-wrapper" id="hs-cta-wrapper-9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430"><span class="hs-cta-node hs-cta-9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430" id="hs-cta-9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430"><a href="https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8805657/9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430" ><img class="hs-cta-img" id="hs-cta-img-9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430" style="border-width:0px;" src="https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8805657/9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430.png"  alt="New call-to-action"/></a></span><script charset="utf-8" src="https://js.hscta.net/cta/current.js"></script><script type="text/javascript"> hbspt.cta.load(8805657, '9045cdcc-12c4-4c8f-b3c9-c639293c3430', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); </script></span>



<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection-the-right-way">Data collection – the right way</h2>



<p>Regardless of which method you prefer to follow up and collect measured values, you can use all these methods in parallel and have your data structured in one place through our solutions. No more Excel files or missed or incorrect readings.</p>



<p>Measured values are visualized in the form of clear graphs and diagrams. This way, you can also use the data to get results on your energy and efficiency measures – quickly, cost-efficiently, and accurately.</p>

How to collect and digitalize data from your main meters 

Lars Rugelsjøen Lie

Send us your CV

If you're a talented engineer passionate about advanced system solutions and want to make a positive impact, we'd love to hear from you.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-system-engineer">System Engineer</h2>



<p><strong>Employment</strong>: Full-time<br><strong>Start date</strong>: 2023<br><strong>Location</strong>: Trondheim, Norway or Stockholm, Sweden<br><strong>Recruiting manager</strong>:<br>Lars Lie,<br>Delivery Manager - IWMAC</p>



<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="mailto:hr@kiona.com">Apply now</a></div>




<p>As a System engineer, you will design and implement advanced system solutions that help our customers save money and the environment through reduced energy consumption and better building management.</p>



<p>If you're committed to continuous learning and improvement, we'd love to hear from you!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The team</h2>



<p>We are a dynamic and growing software company that delivers innovative solutions to our clients. Our team consists of talented and passionate engineers who work together to create high-quality products that help our customers save money and the environment through reduced energy consumption and better building management.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your responsibilities</h2>



<p>As a System Engineer at Kiona, you are positive, enthusiastic, and service-minded.<br>You will;</p>



<ul>
<li>Take ownership and a leading role in your projects, ensuring progress, quality, and maintainability.</li>



<li>Keep up to date on technology trends within core competencies.</li>



<li>Work closely with suppliers and partners</li>



<li>Prepare new products for integration within the Kiona portfolio</li>



<li>Be an important colleague in the company's delivery and aftersales team.</li>



<li>Collaborate &amp; communicate with cross-functional teams to identify, analyze, and solve complex problems.</li>



<li>Perform tasks related to new integrations.</li>



<li>Work with integrations toward different hardware using various proptech protocols.</li>



<li>Drawing and dynamization of technical facilities.</li>



<li>Test of communication against control automation</li>



<li>Prepare protocols for new equipment.</li>



<li>System commissioning</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your background includes</h2>



<ul>
<li>Education from technical School/Engineering College or other relevant education</li>



<li>Experience form refrigeration, automation, and/or IT</li>



<li>Good understanding of network topology and protocols</li>



<li>Knowledge and experience from using database tools</li>



<li>Project management experience is a plus</li>



<li>Strong problem-solving and analytical skills</li>



<li>Strong communication and interpersonal skills</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">You are</h2>



<p>An engineer by heart, a self-starter who takes the initiative, and can work independently. As a team player, you enjoy collaborating with others to achieve common goals. Passionate about technology and system solutions. You are committed to continuous learning and improvement.</p>



<p>You might speak and write fluently in English and Norwegian/Swedish</p>

System Engineer

Get in touch with us

Want to know more about Energinet?

<p>The development of Energinet, the energy monitoring system, began in 2002. The primary objective has been to create a web-based system with an easy interface, enabling users to access information with just a few clicks.</p>



<p>Energinet gives you information on whether what you are doing is actually working. If you have control through a SCADA or industrial control system (ICS), <a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a> is on top and monitors the end results. This makes the job of energy management much more efficient.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-you-need-to-have-quality-data">You need to have quality data</h2>



<p>The system has been developed in cooperation with customers and energy advisors. The result is a solution that suits absolutely everyone. From simple analyses to complex calculations for larger organizations.</p>



<p>The mindset has always been the same: the most important thing is quality and solutions that do not lock the customer in.</p>



<p>"We have no hidden agenda, so all our solutions are completely open. Energinet is independent of suppliers and can retrieve data from anywhere, anytime – that's the biggest benefit for our customers," he says.</p>







<p>Today, Energinet is used in all types of public, commercial, and industrial buildings, such as schools, hospitals, manufacturing companies, shopping centers, and grocery stores. Altogether, this amounts to an area of over one hundred million square meters, with no restrictions on the number of users, user levels, or number of meters.</p>



<p>In addition to the web solution, you can distribute information to the whole organization or defined recipients through self-reports on e-mail and app. This way, you can spend as little time as possible on reporting and monitoring and as much time as possible on energy reduction measures.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-monitoring-on-the-key-performance-indicators-that-matter">Energy monitoring on the key performance indicators that matter</h2>



<p>The monitoring system can be used for much more than <em>just</em> monitoring energy. The system is modular, with no limitations on the number of meters, virtual meters, imports, energy blocks, buildings, groups, subgroups, or users.</p>



<p>"We set up the top level of Energinet for you, so you have access to all standardized reports and key figures. Beyond that, you can create whatever you want and make any calculation that gives you the key figure you and your company are looking for. This can be anything from the <a href="https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Coefficient_of_performance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COP (coefficient of performance)</a> of heat pump systems, the number of kilowatts used per ton of aluminum produced, to which of your production lines is the most efficient," says Ludvigsen. </p>



<p>He explains that it is precisely then you get the data you need to say <strong>why</strong> the situation is the way it is and <strong>what </strong>you can do to make it more efficient.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Report-EN.png" alt="Energy monitoring report dashboard" class="wp-image-36339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Use Energinet to tailor your reports depending on the KPIs you seek.</figcaption></figure>



<p>"Without information, you know nothing. You can believe and guess –&nbsp;but that doesn't produce results. You need to understand the history, the current situation, and whether the measures are working."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-break-the-bottlenecks-and-control-the-consumption">Break the bottlenecks –&nbsp;and control the consumption</h2>



<p>The potential for energy savings remains high in most of the areas in which we operate.</p>



<p>"For example, many people run automatic regulations of indoor temperature depending on the outdoor temperature but don't really know whether it is energy efficient or not. Once the setup of Energinet is ready, you can immediately catch unnecessary errors or excessive energy consumption related to ventilation, cooling, or heat recovery. This makes it possible to monitor operations and work in a more energy-efficient way," he explains.</p>



<p>But without access to and analysis of the right data, it's impossible to know where to start to make the right choices. And steering without oversight –&nbsp;is a bit like shooting in the dark.</p>



<p>"We rely on customers to understand the value of fully open solutions and not lock themselves into a single supplier."</p>



<p>"Take any building, with a sea of different systems. Bring data from all of them into a single solution and see what actually matters to your operations. Then a lot of the work is done." he concludes.</p>

Energy monitoring: – Drop the gut feeling, and make decisions based on data

If you're committed to continuous learning and improvement, we'd love to hear from you!

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-team">The team</h2>



<p>We are a dynamic and growing software company that delivers innovative solutions to our clients. Our team consists of talented and passionate developers who work together to create high-quality products that help our customers save money and the environment through reduced energy consumption and better building management.</p>



<p>Work in a small and agile team with high flexibility and with product owners intimately familiar with product and software development challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-responsibilities">Your responsibilities</h2>



<p>As a Developer at Kiona, you are focused on product development and responsible for providing technical knowledge to support the product strategy and functionality enhancement. As a developer, you work closely with the teams to ensure that all software solutions accurately reflect the market requirements.</p>



<p><strong>You will;</strong></p>



<ul>
<li>Take ownership and a leading role in your projects, ensuring progress, quality, and maintainability</li>



<li>Keep up to date on technology trends within core competencies</li>



<li>Obtain and utilize domain knowledge and spread knowledge in the team</li>



<li>Design, develop, and maintain software applications, including the full stack, including SQL databases, PHP, and web-based frontend</li>



<li>Collaborate and communicate with cross-functional teams to identify, analyze, and solve complex problems</li>



<li>Write clean, maintainable, and efficient code</li>



<li>Participate in code reviews and ensure adherence to best practices and standards</li>



<li>Work with integrations toward different hardware using various proptech protocols</li>



<li>Develop cross-product implementations within the Kiona portfolio, including SCADA systems, energy management systems, and AI optimizations for heating</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-background-includes">Your background includes</h2>



<p>The ideal candidate for the position has a passion for coding as well as:</p>



<ul>
<li>Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar experience</li>



<li>Experience in being a lead developer</li>



<li>5+ years of experience in software development</li>



<li>Skilled in at least one programming language</li>



<li>Experience with software development tools and Agile methodologies</li>



<li>Strong problem-solving and analytical skills</li>



<li>Strong communication and interpersonal skills</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-you-are">You are</h2>



<p>A developer by heart, a self-starter who takes the initiative, and can work independently. As a team player, you enjoy collaborating to achieve common goals. Passionate about technology and software development, You are committed to continuous learning and improvement.</p>



<p>You might speak and write fluently in English. (Norwegian is a +)</p>



<p>If you're a talented developer with a passion for software development and a desire to make a positive impact, we'd love to hear from you.</p>

Senior Software Developer

Ready to make your building smart?

<p>Modernizing old buildings can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to incorporating new technologies. Buildings constructed decades ago were simply not designed to accommodate the needs of today's world. But with new energy-saving requirements, smart technologies, and climate control demands – you have to keep up.</p>



<p>Luckily, with the power of new building automation solutions, it's possible to turn any old building into a modern and efficient one without losing its historical charm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-automation-systems-the-way-to-go">Automation systems – the way to go</h2>



<p>Building automation solutions offer a proactive approach to modernization that ensures buildings are always running efficiently and sustainably.</p>



<p>But what are they exactly? These systems use sensors, controls, and software to monitor and manage a building's energy usage, temperature, lighting, and more. They're like the brains of the building that make sure everything is running smoothly.</p>





<p>They can also detect and diagnose problems before they become major issues, allowing building managers to take action before it's too late.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reactive-vs-proactive-what-s-the-difference">Reactive vs. proactive: what's the difference?</h2>



<p>There are two types of buildings out there – reactive and proactive. Reactive buildings (or reactive automation systems) only respond to problems when they occur. For example, the building manager must call a maintenance crew to fix the issue if the air conditioning fails. This approach can lead to higher maintenance costs and longer downtime, as problems are not detected until they have already occurred.</p>



<p>Proactive buildings, on the other hand, utilize automation solutions that anticipate and prevent problems before they occur. By choosing a solution with some sort of prediction functionality, you can compensate for some of the shortcomings of old technical components.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/05/Smart-Functions-AC-Heat.png" alt="Smart Functions" class="wp-image-2728"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Things tend to go wrong when no one is looking. <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions">IWMACs Smart Functions</a> are like a caretaker who never sleeps or looks away. So, if anything unusual should happen, we'll let you know.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Imagine having a lookout guard always on duty to keep your building running smoothly. These systems monitor the building 24/7 and alert managers to potential issues in advance, allowing for quick action and preventing costly downtime.</p>



<p>Moreover, the systems adjust lighting, heating, and cooling based on factors like occupancy, time of day, and predicted weather. This improves energy efficiency and saves money in the long run.</p>



<ul>
<li>Interested in finding the right solution for you? <a href="https://kiona.com/products">See a comparison of all our products.</a></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-started">Get started</h2>



<p>Modernizing an old building and integrating new technologies requires a step-by-step approach. Here are some of them:</p>



<ol>
<li><strong>Do an energy audit to see where you can optimize energy usage. </strong><br>This typically involves a thorough examination of the building's energy usage patterns, systems, and equipment. The goal is to identify areas of inefficiency and potential for saving.<br><br>By gathering data, performing a walk–through inspection of the physical equipment, testing the performance of the system(s), and planning for actual needs – you get a much clearer image of where you should begin.</li>



<li><strong>Determine which solutions are best suited for your building's needs.  </strong><br>If you want to cut down on your building's operational costs, it's worth examining your core systems, such as ventilation, heating, or larger cooling systems. To better monitor and control these systems, you could use a SCADA platform, which offers more advanced features.<br><br>However, if you're looking for a simpler solution, IoT integration could be a better fit, as it's lightweight and easy to use while still providing useful data for optimization.</li>



<li><strong>Install the necessary sensors, controls, and software solutions.</strong><br>Choosing a service provider with expanded knowledge gives you efficient setups and less risk. When someone contacts us to install a technical system, we always recommend using a certified partner – they are simply the best at it.</li>
</ol>



<ol start="4">
<li><strong>Follow-up, follow-up, and follow-up</strong><br>Make it a habit to regularly view the data provided. Also, it's not like the system does it all once installed. <br><br>Scheduling maintenance, carrying out equipment inspections, and continuing to train and educate yourself on the system is a never-ending game. And one that you should not skip – if you are to continue keeping up with the technology you've now invested in.</li>
</ol>

From reactive to proactive buildings

<p>With high energy prices and concerns over energy dependence, reducing our consumption is on everyone's mind.</p>



<p>And when it comes to energy, you're likely familiar with direct energy use, which refers to the energy consumed by a building's mechanical and electrical systems, such as lighting, heating, and air conditioning. However, another form of usage is often overlooked – known as <strong>indirect energy use</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indirect-energy-use-what-is-it">Indirect energy use: what is it?</h2>



<p>Indirect energy use refers to the energy consumed during the production, transportation, and disposal of goods and services a building uses, such as the energy required to manufacture building materials, transport products to the location, or waste disposal.</p>





<p>Although indirect energy use may not be so noticeable, it can make up an important part of a building's overall footprint. For example, the energy required to produce a single brick is&nbsp;<a href="https://pliteq.com/news/building-vs-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estimated to be about 1 kWh</a>&nbsp;(making it a fairly average material choice). However, if thousands of bricks are required for construction, that's still a lot of indirect energy use.</p>



<p>Similarly, building materials such as concrete and steel have a much higher embodied energy than materials such as wood and bamboo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-indirect-energy-use-affects-energy-savings-in-buildings">How indirect energy use affects energy savings in buildings</h2>



<p>Indirect energy use is closely related to energy savings in buildings, as it accounts for a big portion of a building's environmental impact. Reducing this type of energy in buildings is a crucial step in boosting savings and sustainability.</p>



<p>Here are some measures that can be taken:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-choose-sustainable-building-materials">1. Choose sustainable building materials</h3>



<p>By selecting building materials that are sustainably sourced, energy-efficient, and have low embodied energy, you can reduce the indirect energy used in their production.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/04/Building-materials-by-Rodolfo-Quiros-Pexels-1240x698-1.jpg" alt="Choose building materials required for the purpose and expected life cycle." class="wp-image-34862"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Remember: <em>Choosing materials with low embodied energy may result in higher energy use in operations, and materials with higher embodied energy can result in a building with lower operational energy. The most important part is to choose materials required for the purpose and expected life cycle. Photo by Rodolfo Quirós / Pexels</em>.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>Assessing the embodied energy of a material or whole building is a complex task. Re-using existing materials, choosing new materials made of recycled content, and designing for a long building life is a good guide. Learn more about </em><a href="https://www.yourhome.gov.au/materials/embodied-energy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>calculating embodied energy</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-optimize-building-systems">2. Optimize building systems</h3>



<p>By automating building systems such as lighting, HVAC, and ventilation, we can ensure that these systems only operate when needed. This can reduce energy waste and promote more efficient use of resources, also resulting in more environmental benefits.</p>



<p>Looking for options that allow you to add on other systems or solutions later is a great way to ensure scalable possibilities that you won't grow out of right away (and that you won't have to replace).</p>





<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-re-use-existing-buildings-and-infrastructure">3. Re-use existing buildings and infrastructure</h3>



<p>Re-using existing buildings reduces the environmental impact of construction by conserving resources and reducing waste. It also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with producing new materials.</p>



<p>With affordable solutions, we can make today's buildings much smarter just by upgrading the existing equipment. This is possible as long as the systems can talk to each other.&nbsp;Our <a href="https://kiona.com/products" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open and flexible platform</a> is built for that purpose.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-going-green-it-s-complicated">Going green? It's complicated.</h2>



<p>To truly understand a building's energy footprint, it is important to consider all the energy and resources that go into producing and operating a building, including both direct and indirect energy use.</p>



<p>Additionally, leveraging flexible automation solutions can help you achieve even greater energy savings, but this is just one part of the equation. Re-using existing buildings, choosing sustainable building materials, and implementing effective waste programs are just as important.</p>



<p>It's time to speed up building smartness. And to reach our climate targets, "smart" can't be synonymous with flashy new buildings. <strong>We must do something about all existing buildings, which is entirely possible.</strong></p>

The thief lurking in your building – indirect energy use

Stay cool and informed with our stories on refrigeration and freezing. You will find content on temperature control suitable for rookies and tech-savvy partners. Find blog posts, use cases and videos on temperature control, heat recovery, natural cooling and wireless temperature sensors. Relevant for supermarkets, hotels and restaurants, and large industrial cooling systems like marine and other food processing facilities.

Refrigeration and freezing

<p>When you throw food out, it's not just the food that goes to waste. The farmer's effort, the fuel that has been used to transport the goods, and respect for the fact that we have food on the table shouldn't be taken for granted.</p>



<p>Globally, around 14 % of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 17 % of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-food-waste-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food production</a>&nbsp;is wasted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermarkets-are-big-energy-spenders">Supermarkets are big energy spenders</h2>





<p>In addition to large volumes of food getting lost somewhere in the supply chain, supermarkets are one of the most energy-intensive sectors among commercial buildings. The primary reason for this high energy consumption is refrigeration, which can account for more than half of all the energy used.</p>



<p>Food that is lost and wasted accounts for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-food-waste-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">38 % of total energy usage</a>&nbsp;in the global food system. Meaning that energy efficiency and food waste are highly intertwined.</p>





<p>It's difficult to address the whole value chain; we can't solve everything at once. But we can do something about the food that is lost due to improper storage or failing refrigeration and freezing systems. For some stores,&nbsp;<a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/wireless/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wireless temperature monitoring</a>&nbsp;could be the route to avoid food waste.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-wireless-temperature-monitoring"><strong>Benefits of wireless temperature monitoring</strong></h2>



<p>A wireless solution is a good replacement for cabled equipment and is a useful way to cut costs, enhance flexibility and get faster, less invasive installations.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/03/Step-2.png" alt="Wireless sensors" class="wp-image-33617"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The wireless sensors fit just about everywhere - no matter what kind of equipment you already have.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Wireless devices are versatile and can be used for more than you might think. Here are 3 benefits you should know about:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduces-the-risk-of-product-loss">Reduces the risk of product loss</h3>



<ul>
<li>The temperature sensors communicate with our servers, so you get an SMS warning you of deviations if the temperature rises above or drops below set limits. This way, you can avert loss and gain greater control over the food you sell.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quick-and-simple-installation"><strong>Quick and simple installation</strong></h3>



<ul>
<li>You can fit the wireless sensors precisely where something needs measuring, and installation is so simple you can do it yourself. To begin with, we set the limit values for you. Later on, you can log in and change them as you wish.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-versatile">Versatile</h3>



<ul>
<li>Many kiosks, small shops, canteens, and gas stations opt for wireless monitoring. But did you know that they are also used in car washes, boats, and public transport? Measure moisture or temperature, with plenty of fastening options and long battery life.</li>
</ul>



<p>Because the system is wireless, the sensors can be used in many different places. In fact, you can connect up to 60 sensors to one gateway. Simple, fast, and affordable.</p>





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<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ps-don-t-judge-a-book-by-its-cover"><em>PS: Don't judge a book by its cover</em></h4>



<p><em>Here are some handy everyday hints for all those food rescuers out there:  &nbsp;</em></p>



<ol>
<li><em>Ugly fruit or weird carrot? Cut away the blemishes, and buy fruit that doesn't meet the cosmetic standard. They taste the same.</em></li>



<li><em>Rummage a little in the fridge when you refill it and put the oldest item at the front. Make sure the refrigerator is at the right temperature.</em></li>



<li><em>Best before, but not bad after! The look, smell, and taste test is often a good clue as to whether the food is safe or not.</em></li>
</ol>

Wireless temperature monitoring –  a shortcut to avoiding food waste

Find your solution

Be proactive from anywhere – anytime. 

<p>Jon Åkerström has more than two decades of experience in product and system development. Together with our products and innovation team, he works closely with everything in the realm of property technology.</p>



<p>Because <a href="https://kiona.com/products/">our product platform</a> is fundamentally open and customizable, flexible and independent solutions are encouraged – and prioritized. The whole mantra is that open, flexible, and independent solutions = more opportunities for customers and partners.</p>





<p>But to bring innovation and creativity to our partners, the whole product platform must be thoroughly thought out while keeping an eye on the price.</p>



<h2 id="h-creating-the-product-platform"><strong>Creating the product platform</strong></h2>



<p>The products and innovation team works with a development process considering current strategic goals, technical state, suggested innovations, and customers' and <a href="https://kiona.com/our-partners/">partners'</a> upcoming needs.</p>



<p>In addition, the team stays updated with technology, trends, and <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en/news/2022/9/iot-meets-the-property-sector-to-combat-rising-energy-costs-and-climate-change-while-increasing-property-value-ericsson-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proptech technologies</a>. This means that the development of ideas and concepts is a continuous process.</p>



<p>– We have several support systems to help us prioritize, such as our idea portal, feedback channels, relevant community forums, and interviews with customers and partners. This helps us identify customers' problems, needs, and the tasks they are trying to perform within our markets and segments. And that is, by the end of the day, the most crucial part of our product development, Åkerström explains.</p>



<h2 id="h-open-solutions-programmable-or-ready-made"><strong>Open solutions: programmable or ready-made</strong></h2>



<p>We often like to translate open with accessible. That means you should get any data in any format you want when you want it.</p>



<p>– We have integrations to virtually any equipment and offer open APIs for all our products. We support over 25 communication protocols, over 4000 different PLCs – each with freely programmable variations – and a vast number of IOT APIs and wireless standards, Åkerström continues.</p>



<p>That means you can use our ready-made smart functions and analytics tool or choose to go with a third-party solution. Full freedom and less risk.</p>





<h2 id="h-driving-innovation-forward"><strong>Driving innovation forward</strong></h2>



<p>A major part of the everyday work is to ensure that our "roadmap" reflects our shared sustainability goals.</p>



<p>Åkerström highlights the importance of developing tools that create opportunities for partners and customers. Opportunities to be creative, adapt, and expand so that they are allowed to be innovative in their business. This creates actual incitement that drives development forward.</p>



<p>With an open platform, building owners, contractors, refrigeration experts, service technicians, and facility and operations managers can all access and configure each feature and tailor their product suite to <strong>fit their needs</strong>. The same goes for energy advisors, employees, tenants, and developers.</p>



<p><em>What benefits does that give our partners and customers going forward?&nbsp;</em></p>



<p>– In the short term, customers will see that the current platform development will improve how the products work together, providing more effective operations as a direct effect. Speaking more long term, we have a very ambitious goal: to build Europe's leading Proptech platform. But we do not think we can do that alone.&nbsp;</p>



<p>– We will do it together with our partners and customers, Åkerström concludes.</p>

Your gateway to freedom and flexibility

Jon Åkerström

Go to the blog

Product updates

<p>The digital age has revolutionized the way we do business. Unfortunately, this digital revolution comes with a dark side. With the ever-evolving cybercrime landscape, we all need to stay ahead. &nbsp;</p>





<p>With old building masses, aging infrastructures, incompatible components, and poorly maintained security, buildings are no exception. &nbsp;</p>



<p>We continue the work of <strong>increasing our customer's cybersecurity and reducing the potential attack threat</strong>. By investing heavily in security measures, we strive to build a safe user environment and keep protecting sensitive data. One of these significant steps is the Single Sign-On (SSO) update.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-about-the-update"><strong>About the update</strong></h2>



<p>With one login for all products, we are reducing the number of passwords you have to manage. Since you also can enable multi-factor authentication, this provides greater login security.&nbsp;</p>





<h3 id="h-1-enterprise-security">1. Enterprise security</h3>



<p>The need to raise the level of security is a response to the new security situation in Europe that has deteriorated in 2022. To reduce the attack surface, we have:</p>



<ul>
<li>Moved the authentication to an enterprise security level identity provider (ISO 27001 certified partner).</li>



<li>Enabled Single Sign-On between all Kiona products, utilizing modern security protocols.</li>



<li>Option to enable <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/what-is-multifactor-authentication-e5e39437-121c-be60-d123-eda06bddf661" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multi-factor authentication</a> on all our products.</li>



<li>Secured standardization of account management.</li>
</ul>



<p>We have also moved our internal IT to an ISO 27001-certified partner and continue working on security strategies in development routines and other internal processes.</p>



<h3 id="h-2-usability-and-user-experience">2. Usability and user experience</h3>



<p>Introducing a <strong>single sign-on between all our products</strong> allows a greater usability experience. You can log in once with your e-mail and password and then freely navigate between the products without being challenged for user credentials again.</p>



<ul>
<li>You can also log in with your Microsoft 365 account and use your security policies for the entire organization, including multi-factor authentication and other security demands.</li>
</ul>



<h3 id="h-3-existing-user-directory">3. Existing user directory</h3>



<p>Many of our customers have their own user directories, with thousands of users assigned permissions according to the company's organizational structure. To support this, you can now include federated domains.</p>



<ul>
<li>This allows users in the customer user directory to be identified using their existing credentials with our products.</li>



<li>By delegating the user management to your identity management system, we ensure that you can keep following your existing security policies.</li>
</ul>



<p><em>Want to know more about using your own user directory? </em><a href="https://kiona.com/contact-us/contact-sales" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Send us a message</em></a><em>, and we'll help you get started.</em></p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-new-update-works"><strong>How the new update works</strong></h2>



<p>When logging into one of our solutions, you will meet a <strong>new login page</strong>. Log in using your e-mail and password. You can also choose to log in with your Microsoft 365 account.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/03/SSO-Login-page.jpg" alt="SSO login page Kiona" class="wp-image-31664"/></figure>



<p>IWMAC users will be asked to add and verify their e-mail addresses. Follow the steps and use the "Forgotten password" option if needed. <strong><a href="https://iwmac.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/articles/8079407679900-NEW-login-IWMAC-important-information">Important information about the new IWMAC login.</a></strong></p>



<p>Web Port users will have to download the latest version of Web Port. <strong>Get started by viewing our <a href="https://iwmac.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/articles/7836179159452-Single-Sign-On-SSO-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zendesk-guide on how to implement Kiona identity</a>.</strong></p>

Unified login and strengthened security – SSO

Anders Sletbak  Nilsen

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Want to stay updated on the development of the dashboard, and other IWMAC releases?

IWMAC

<h3 id="h-product-iwmacnew-dashboard"><strong>Product: <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac">IWMAC</a></strong><br><strong>New: Dashboard</strong></h3>



<p>Use the d<em>ashboard</em> in IWMAC to compare multiple plants and to easier follow up on the plants with the most alarms. This means you quickly get an overview of deviations and can put measures at the plants that need it most.</p>



<p>In this first version, v.1 of the dashboard, you will have access to the following widgets:</p>



<ul>
<li>Alarm Monitoring 24/7 – Call log</li>



<li>Alarms (choose between A,B or C alarms)</li>



<li>Smart Function alarms</li>
</ul>



<h2 id="h-start-using-the-new-dashboard"><strong>Start using the new dashboard</strong></h2>



<p>When you log in to IWMAC, you will find a new submenu. You can access your plant list from the <em>"My plants"</em> option and see the new "<em>Dashboard</em>" button.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/02/Dashboard-My-plants-1.png" alt="IWMAC Dashboard - my plants" class="wp-image-30371"/></figure>



<p>When you open the dashboard for the first time, it will be empty. Start by adding widgets. You can change the title and how many rows you want shown in each widget.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/02/Dashboard-overview.png" alt="IWMAC Dashboard - overview" class="wp-image-30634"/></figure>



<p>Each widget added to the dashboard comes with its own settings. They can easily be resized, moved around, edited, or deleted.</p>



<p><strong>See help article to get started. <a href="https://iwmac.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/articles/7787543691932-Widgets-">Go to Zendesk.</a></strong></p>

IWMAC: Dashboard

Want to know more about open, flexible and independent systems?

<p>The need for intelligent building management has never been greater. Building owners and operational teams must be able to stay on top of many different functions and systems, all while striving for efficiency and optimization. Fortunately, there are solutions out there that can make this work easier and more effective. APIs and REST APIs have become vital tools in energy and building management, bringing significant benefits to building owners and operators alike.</p>



<p>Allowing developers to create innovative solutions that equip operational teams with more insights than ever is changing how buildings are managed and maintained.</p>



<p><strong>But first things first – what are APIs, and in what way can you benefit from them?</strong></p>



<h2 id="h-apis-and-integrations"><strong>APIs and integrations</strong></h2>



<p>Simply put, <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">API (or "Application Programming Interface")</a> is a set of instructions or, specifically, a code that lets two sets of data within different systems communicate with each other. This allows an app, website, or system to access data and use it in different ways.</p>





<p>When the API of two systems is connected, it allows easy sharing of data that can be used to automate all kinds of processes.</p>



<h2 id="h-benefits-of-apis-for-energy-and-building-management">Benefits of APIs for energy- and building management</h2>



<p>APIs have revolutionized how building management systems are connected and automated. Using APIs, building systems can be connected to a network of smart devices, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of the entire building.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/06/production-and-manufacturing.jpg" alt="Factory illustration of technical equipment that can be connected through APIs." class="wp-image-9357"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image: Connect all the technical equipment at your plant through APIs and utilize the data in your building management platform.</figcaption></figure>



<h3 id="h-1-better-performance-of-technical-installations">1. Better performance of technical installations</h3>



<p>By, for instance, connecting your building management system with your energy management system, you can track, evaluate and adjust as needed, with data being automatically sent between your systems and to your technical equipment.</p>



<p>With greater visibility and control over the building's systems, operations teams can also utilize this data to detect and repair inefficiencies. This provides a great tool for increasing the longevity of systems.</p>



<p>All in all, better performance = fewer problems and more efficient teams.</p>



<h3 id="h-2-increased-efficiency-and-improved-data-quality">2. Increased efficiency and improved data quality</h3>



<p>With no time to waste for busy teams, APIs let a crucial but time–consuming part of your operation be done easier. Instead of manually measuring values and punching data, the data is automatically exchanged and collected. This also reduces the chance of costly mistakes and human errors.</p>



<h3 id="h-3-easier-integrations">3. Easier integrations</h3>



<p>Have you ever tried a solution just to figure out that it didn't work the way you wanted or needed it to? APIs can help you escape the large and expensive integration projects where you either have to adapt systems to do something they were not designed for or build something from scratch.</p>





<h2 id="h-what-about-open-apis">What about Open APIs?</h2>





<p>Having an open API means that all technical information is open and available online. The big advantage is that more people get access to it, and it's easier to investigate what opportunities exist.</p>



<p>Open APIs are key to creating a more efficient and <a href="https://kiona.com/products/">seamless integration of technical equipment</a>. This lowers the threshold for creative developers who want to go all-in designing, utilizing, and benefiting from different systems – overall creating better solutions in the long run.&nbsp;</p>

APIs in buildings: making operations more efficient

Solutions for refrigeration

Want to stay on top of alarms and faults?

Partner

<p>As CEO, Korsnes has extensive industry experience. NordDisk has known about <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC, our SCADA for cooling and refrigeration</a>, since the dawn of time and has used the system in supermarkets since the early 2000s. As a total supplier of services and equipment within refrigeration, freezing, and air conditioning, they tailor solutions and take on projects from A to Z.</p>





<p>Therefore, they are well aware of what is happening in the market.</p>



<p>– We wanted to become partners to develop further in the field of energy saving and deliver easier monitoring, notification, and control through SCADA systems. Since then, we have delivered many smart solutions for managing complete systems within buildings and larger stores. It has been very successful, Korsnes explains.</p>



<p>After installing and delivering the system solution, <a href="https://www.norddisk.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NordDisk</a> continues to "tune" the system to perform in the best possible way. With the help of IWMAC, they can immediately catch unnecessary errors and excessive energy consumption linked to ventilation, cooling, and heat recovery.</p>



<p>That makes it possible to follow up operations according to the KPIs that have been set and to deliver cost-effective facilities that also work in an energy-efficient manner.</p>



<h2 id="h-refrigeration-and-cooling-solutions-that-save-energy">Refrigeration and cooling solutions that save energy</h2>



<p>Furthermore, Korsnes points out that the focus and potential for energy saving when it comes to refrigerants is increasing, but that as an industry, they still have a way to go. It also depends on the suppliers being willing to create the right solution.</p>



<p>– The overall picture of cooling, ventilation, and power-saving measures, which we can easily control via the web, is important in this work. It allows us to reuse much of the energy we have used in the system and control pressure as needed on the cooling and air conditioning systems, he says.</p>





<p>He thinks they will have a steep curve for another three to five years before the industry has replaced most of the old technology. The climate industry is still lagging behind, so this market will take over as a focus area in two to three years.</p>



<p>Constantly developing and delivering better, more climate-friendly solutions is a must and makes it possible to adapt to the market. Something that only becomes more and more important.</p>



<h2 id="h-it-pays-to-be-partners">It pays to be partners</h2>



<p>With a focus on service, technology, and close customer follow-up, NordDisk has hands-on experience in precisely being capable of change.</p>



<p>– We see it as one of our strengths that we have a short service path between suppliers, customers, and partners. This means that we can turn around quickly to meet your wishes and requirements. With close cooperation, we have managed to lift ourselves up compared to our competitors. We are therefore very grateful for the Kiona partnership, Korsnes concludes.</p>



<p>The collaboration between service providers, software, and hardware vendors enables us to put our heads together to deliver the best possible solution for customers. The focus on close collaboration produces clear results, proving this is the right way.</p>

– The key to success is players who collaborate

<p>Open, flexible, and independent systems are key to successful digitalization. <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge</a> has several standard integrations with various systems and solutions, offering everything from connected water meters to wireless IoT devices and different building technology systems.</p>



<p>These standard integrations mean that the groundwork around setting up the integration between Edge and third parties is already done. This way, you can build your own solutions on top of Edge to achieve added business value.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A requirement for this to work is that there is an <strong>open API</strong> that can be accessed or that a <strong>standardized communication protocol</strong> is being used.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-products-ready-to-integrate-with-edge"><strong>Products ready to integrate with Edge</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://www.regincontrols.com/en/sg/solutions/building-management/system-software/arrigo-bms/">Arrigo</a></td><td>Integration of SCADA, Edge as software PlugIn</td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.bkab.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BKAB</a></td><td>Integration of IoT devices, like temperature sensors via wM-Bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.bmeters.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bmeter</a></td><td>Integration of temperature and humidity sensor via wM-Bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://brunata.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brunata</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.autic.no/product-category/programvarescada/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9rSoBhCiARIsAFOiplnbElCj1Edrd8dakeqoufohqH9SwPiyyV-5Y5bwgSYUFxUAsI8Qap0aAuV3EALw_wcB">Citect</a></td><td>Integration of SCADA, Edge as software PlugIn</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.diehl.com/group/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diehl</a></td><td>Integration of meters via M-Bus and wM-Bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.ecoguard.se/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EcoGuard</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.elvaco.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elvaco</a></td><td>Integration of CMe3100 and CMe2100.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.enerkey.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enerkey</a></td><td>Integration of energy statistics via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://entos.fi/topair-ec/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entos Topair</a></td><td>Integration of ventilation solution via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://infometric.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Infometric</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.ista.com/se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISTA</a></td><td>Integration of temperature sensors via SFTP.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.kamstrup.com/en-en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kamstrup</a></td><td>Integration of meters and senors via M-Bus and wM-Bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.landisgyr.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landis &amp; Gyr</a></td><td>Integration of meters via M-bus and wM-Bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.lansensystems.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lansen</a></td><td>Integration of temperature and humidity sensor via wM-bus.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://metry.io/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Metry</a></td><td>Integration for import of energy statistics and measurement data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://netmoregroup.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netmore</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.qt-systems.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">QT-System</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://riots.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riots</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data via API. <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/edge-riots-integration/">Read more →</a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.se.com/ww/en/work/campaign/innovation/platform.jsp">Schneider EcoStructure</a></td><td>Integration of SCADA, Edge as software PlugIn*</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.siemens.com/global/en/products/automation/industry-software/automation-software.html">Siemens</a></td><td>Integration of SCADA, Edge as software PlugIn*</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://simap.fi/en/frontpage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simap</a></td><td>Integration of heating regulation system via API. </td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://smartvatten.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smartvatten</a></td><td>Integration for importing measurement data via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://wattsense.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wattsense</a></td><td>Integration of building equipment via API.</td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Web Port</a></td><td>Integration to SCADA for data transfer and AI steering via API. <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Read more →</a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.x2wireless.com/">X2 Wireless</a></td><td>Integration of temperature data from smoke detectors via API. <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/edge-x2wireless-integration/">Read more →</a></td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">*Contact us for more information on these projects</figcaption></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examples-of-supported-integrations">Examples of supported integrations</h2>





<p>Below is a summary of some integrations that currently is connected to Edge. A standard integration is already in place in these cases, and connecting the systems and using the data is easy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-integration-of-third-party-iot-devices">1. Integration of third-party IoT devices</h3>



<p>In addition to the already supported integrations, Edge has an open API and can import most third-party products for indoor measurement or metering data. This flexibility allows you to choose the best tools for your needs and combine them with Edge.</p>



<p>The open API offers opportunities to build new services based on Edge's functionality or to integrate with other systems to use certain data or our AI-steering on different platforms and systems.</p>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://connector.egain.io/v1/docs/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check out our open APIs here</a></li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-web-port-cloud-and-hmi-scada">2. Web Port – Cloud and HMI SCADA</h3>



<p>Edge supports seamless integration to <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a>. This includes hardware integration of various protocols, like M-Bus, Modbus, BACnet, and OPC. And as a bonus: all device drivers supported by Web Port work with Edge.&nbsp;</p>





<p>We also support sending steering algorithms to buildings with Web Port based on data collected by our own infrastructure or from third parties. For example, you can connect to Edge AI, our smart AI engine, which is entirely software-based through Web Port.</p>





<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-digital-collection-of-consumption-data-heat-electricity-water">3. Digital collection of consumption data (heat, electricity, water)</h3>



<p>Integrating with hardware already installed in a building often involves connecting physical meters of different brands and different ways of communicating. This makes it possible to visualize and utilize the data in Edge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These integrations are usually done through M-Bus or wM-Bus for meters from Kamstrup, Elvaco, Diehl, Landis &amp; Gyr, and many more. To gather data on water, you could, for example, use Smartvattens hardware to collect and present real-time water data inside Edge, along with heating and electricity.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<p>Examples of protocols used in hardware that we can integrate with are M-Bus, wM-Bus, BACnet, and LoRaWAN.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-you-should-strive-to-upgrade-your-existing-systems">Why you should strive to upgrade your existing systems</h2>



<p>The biggest advantage of integrating is that you can re-use existing hardware or services, perhaps even in other or new situations, and take advantage of the investment you already have made. There is no need to throw out and buy new equipment when it pays off to update and get all the available data points.</p>



<p><strong>Do you have hardware or systems that are ready to integrate?</strong></p>

Edge integrations – ready to connect

Filip Lagerlöf

Talk to us

Want to know more about the Web Port + Energinet combo?

<p>Energy efficiency and optimization have been high on the agenda of property owners over the past year. And in a volatile market where <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/overcome-climbing-energy-prices/">energy prices have</a> skyrocketed, and a recession is approaching, building managers need to review their existing technical installations.</p>



<p>Investing in solutions that control heating, ventilation, and water will help reduce operating costs and climate impact. It's about being able to measure and address a building's energy losses, which can be caused, among other things, by incorrect settings.</p>





<p>– By reviewing technical installations and investing more in older buildings, you can make big savings, says Richard Hållbus, a certified energy surveyor and energy expert at Ömangruppen in Växjö.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.omangruppen.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ömangruppen</a>, a certified partner, uses <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a> and <a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a> to analyze and map their customers' energy use.</p>



<p>– We previously used an older SCADA platform that didn't have all the needed features. Therefore, we started looking for an alternative solution with a direct response, which we found in Web Port. Web Port is a solution that talks to many different languages. It has several ready-made drivers that can be connected to the existing control systems already in place. We can easily set up the functions we want when adjusting the buildings, Hållbus explains.</p>





<h2 id="h-better-data-collection-and-analysis"><strong>Better data collection and analysis</strong></h2>



<p>Hållbus shares that it is easier to analyze the data coming in from customers as it is automatically collected via APIs directly from the energy companies.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, reports to customers can easily be automated in Energinet. Automatic reporting frees up resources from collecting data so that more time can be spent making a sharper qualitative analysis. This also makes it easier to calculate energy efficiency savings. Through Web Port's interface (HMI), you get a good overview and can see how the building is doing in real-time.</p>





<p>Energinet, the energy management software, provides the building's energy data, energy use, and performance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>– By using both Web Port and Energinet, we get many synergies. For example, we can directly measure the effect of adjustments made inside Web Port and then, with frequent intervals and higher resolution, see how the change in the values affects the energy consumption in Energinet.</p>



<p>Energinet is a unique analysis tool that offers many additional features. For example, you can easily set any key figure you are interested in, such as energy use per tonne produced if you run a factory.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/04/Energinet-Dashboard-eng.jpg" alt="Energinet Dashboard" class="wp-image-9174"/><figcaption>See the most important data on your Energinet dashboard.</figcaption></figure>



<p>– Efficient energy optimization can inform the pricing of manufactured products. For example, you can see how much energy was used to produce a pastry, a window, or other energy-intensive products. This gives us a great tool to provide good insights for our customers.</p>



<h2 id="h-energy-mapping-reduced-costs"><strong>Energy mapping = reduced costs</strong></h2>



<p>Energy optimization is becoming increasingly important in today's real estate industry. Interest is growing as electricity trading and energy costs take an even larger slice of the operating cost pie.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Industries do not have any special electricity trading subsidies, meaning electricity prices become acute when many people are stuck with old solutions. Energy mapping and energy efficiency can reduce running costs while increasing property value.    </p>



<p>– One real estate company chose to invest in the existing stock instead of buying new buildings and increased its energy and operational monitoring. Careful energy monitoring and alarm functions on the ventilation unit ensured that faults could be dealt with immediately without anyone having to visit the site, says Hålllbus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Ömangruppen has just started to connect its customers to Web Port and Energinet. Today, more than 13 customers with about 30 buildings are connected.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>– We're just getting started, but most of our customers will be connected, and the goal is to have the whole system up and running by the end of 2022. Then we will also be able to gather all customer information in one place and post documents, reports, and information about where meters are located.</p>



<h2 id="h-turn-analysis-into-action"><strong>Turn analysis into action</strong></h2>



<p>Some customers have monthly readings on their consumption of district heating, electricity, and water used. They then receive a quarterly summary report. Other customers have special software installed with alarm functions that read the values every hour. In those cases, Energinet shows them immediately if something has happened, for example, if water consumption has been too high. This allows the action to be taken at an early stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>Web Port and Energinet help our customers to reduce their operating costs. It also adds value to the property. Depending on how many metering points we get access to, we can also help them fix problems before the damage becomes too extensive or costly.</p><cite><em>Richard Hållbus, Ömangruppen</em></cite></blockquote>



<p>–&nbsp; The recent rise in energy prices means that customers are more interested in investing in various solutions to improve energy efficiency and control of their properties. This will benefit them for a long time, not just now when energy prices are high, Hållbus concludes.</p>

The right tools for the job – Ömangruppen cuts customers' operating costs

Company news

<p>Many industries are affected by the component situation, but particularly, car manufacturers, technology companies, and the industrial sector need to monitor the lack of hardware in the supply chain. And plan further ahead.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Our industry is strongly affected by this, with long delivery times and higher prices. Basic components are usually off-the-shelf items and are harder to get.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>We are happy to say that we have worked proactively to avoid uncertainty and deliver on our orders. We appreciate every project we are a part of and would be grateful if you, who plan the infrastructure of these projects, <strong>would let us know as soon as possible what you expect from us</strong>. This way, we can schedule delivery and avoid an excessively long waiting time for the components.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For now, the situation seems to persist. The energy crisis, in combination with the important sustainability goals, means there is a high demand for our solutions. The best we can do is plan far ahead with all our partners.</p>



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<h2 id="h-questions-about-your-projects-and-hardware-components">Questions about your projects and hardware components?</h2>

Global shortage of hardware components

Visit the webpage

More information can be found at savethechildren.net.

<p>For Kiona, it has been an eventful year. At the start of June, <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/becoming-one/">we merged four companies</a>, with different but complementary products, into one. That was one step forward in creating a unified ecosystem of solutions. New partnerships and customers have been formed this year, and new colleagues have joined from all over Europe. We are all ready to hit the new year running.</p>



<p>The ambition to develop solutions that make the world a little better each day is our driving force. At the same time, we know that we have the luxury of both working and living in peaceful and safe markets. That's not the case for everyone.</p>



<p>Today, more than 30 million children are on the run in the world and lack the basic need for security and safety. That is why we choose to support <a href="https://www.savethechildren.net/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Save the Children</a>.</p>



<p>Last year, they directly reached 43 million children in 118 countries, responded to 103 humanitarian emergencies across 63 countries – and spoke out in 126 instances of child rights violations. This is the bigger picture of some of their work.</p>



<h2 id="h-contribute-to-the-cause">Contribute to the cause</h2>



<p>We urge everyone we work with, as private individuals, businesses, and partners, to contribute to creating a better future for the world's children, the most vulnerable victims of any conflict. You can do this by <a href="https://www.savethechildren.net/about-us/how-you-can-help" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">making a single or monthly donation or giving to the children's emergency fund</a>.</p>



<span class="hs-cta-wrapper" id="hs-cta-wrapper-bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767"><span class="hs-cta-node hs-cta-bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767" id="hs-cta-bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767"><a href="https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8805657/bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="hs-cta-img" id="hs-cta-img-bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767" style="border-width:0px;" height="240" width="700" src="https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8805657/bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767.png" alt="New call-to-action"></a></span><script charset="utf-8" src="https://js.hscta.net/cta/current.js"></script><script type="text/javascript"> hbspt.cta.load(8805657, 'bdaa2390-1c9e-4a59-89fb-165a14b39767', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); </script></span>



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<p>Each individual's commitment will be essential to support the work that Save the Children does and, at the same time, contribute to the other challenges we face. Everyone needs to be on the same team to help the transition to a more sustainable future, reduce our climate impact and tackle the energy crisis.</p>



<p>We thank every partner, customer, and colleague for working together to futurize the property ecosystem. We are prepared to meet 2023 with trust, curiosity, and creativity.</p>



<p>All the best wishes for the new year,&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Kiona Team</p>

New beginnings – 2023

Make sure your building management systems perform its very best

<p>In short, the Internet of Things (IoT) is the digital, connected universe of smart devices. These devices are embedded with internet connectivity and consist of hardware, such as sensors, that can communicate with people, the internet, and each other.</p>



<p>"The cloud," big data, and mobile technology enable these physical devices to collect and share data without human intervention. In our hyper-connected world, this data is used to record, monitor, and adjust every device interaction. The physical world meets the digital world – and they work together.</p>



<h2 id="h-examples-of-iot">Examples of IoT</h2>





<p>Most of us are well familiar with the technology. Perhaps the best example is your "smart home," where you can control light, sound, security, and heating through your mobile.</p>



<p>Various businesses already use this technology, such as automotive workshops where your car can send data about mileage and error messages before your appointment. Or in the automation industry, where sensors in a factory can collect data on pressure, air, humidity, and equipment in use – and optimize the interaction between different units.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-can-iot-create-smart-buildings">How can IoT create smart buildings?</h2>



<p>Buildings are a large expense for most businesses, so it's no surprise that owners and managers are constantly looking for new ways to make them more efficient.</p>



<p>IoT technology is also becoming more common in residential properties (housing associations and condominiums), although there is still huge untapped potential in connecting these buildings to the cloud.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/11/interconnection-buildings-utilities-cities-EN.png" alt="Buildings: 
* Fully automated digital buildings
* Fully integrated building controls.
* Open architecture
* Analysis and reporting
* Connectivity of devices
* Network of ubiquitous sensors

Utilities:
* Optimized use of capacity
* Smart metering
* Energy price signals
* Energy storage
* Sensing and measurement

Cities:
* Interconnectivity between  buildings and communities
* Smart service, delivery
* IP networks and broadband
* Interconnected smart metering" class="wp-image-23799"/><figcaption><em>Buildings, utilities, and cities are interconnected, and there are large opportunities for value creation within each field and in the integration between them.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Within building management, IoT makes it possible to manage processes and productivity so that you can take the proper measures to increase energy efficiency or reduce emissions. Not to forget, IoT helps improve the indoor climate by keeping a more stable indoor temperature. Which also tends to decrease complaints related to indoor temperature.</p>



<p>Integrating IoT into existing building systems gives property owners, technicians, and energy companies greater opportunity to monitor and adjust consumption, seamlessly and immediately. </p>





<p>When you connect the&nbsp;<strong>IoT devices</strong>&nbsp;to an AI-based&nbsp;<strong>IoT platform</strong>, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edge</a>, this platform can analyze the data from sensors and automatically visualize and optimize energy use. With real-time analytics about the building structure, external impact, and better data material, the result is a building where every component can work much better. This is often reflected in lower energy usage, better indoor climate, and less waste.</p>



<span class="hs-cta-wrapper" id="hs-cta-wrapper-9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16"><span class="hs-cta-node hs-cta-9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16" id="hs-cta-9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16"><a href="https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8805657/9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="hs-cta-img" id="hs-cta-img-9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16" style="border-width:0px;" height="330" width="700" src="https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8805657/9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16.png" alt="Look what Edge can do for you!"></a></span><script charset="utf-8" src="https://js.hscta.net/cta/current.js"></script><script type="text/javascript"> hbspt.cta.load(8805657, '9a3dc18a-dd1a-4878-87c0-7caa5a5bdc16', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); </script></span>



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<p>Independent and flexible IoT platforms create a&nbsp;<strong>seamless interaction</strong>&nbsp;between internal and external factors – with little helpers who work around the clock to create smart buildings.</p>



<h2 id="h-benefits-of-extra-smart-buildings">Benefits of (extra) smart buildings</h2>



<p>What once forced technicians to make expensive on-site visits can now be addressed digitally, often before it becomes an issue. While most buildings today have some smartness, the difference lies in the flexibility of different solutions. While some are more open and independent, others are more locked.</p>



<p>Using algorithms,&nbsp;<a href="https://kiona.com/solutions/building-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our solutions</a>&nbsp;will continuously monitor your building and react when something isn't working correctly. This can be both&nbsp;<strong>physical faults</strong>&nbsp;and when something can be tweaked to make it&nbsp;<strong>more efficient</strong>. You detect non-conformances faster and don't have to spend time on follow-up and analysis.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>More benefits:</strong></p>



<ul><li>IoT provides a faster basis for decision-making, <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/understanding-energy-efficiency-paves-the-way-for-order/">with weight in data so that you make the right choices</a>.</li><li>Make it easier to identify bottlenecks that reduce efficiency so you can improve processes.</li><li>Reduces downtime due to unscheduled maintenance or equipment failure.</li></ul>

Smart buildings and the Internet of Things (IoT)

Viktor Vitell

Find out how

Turn traditional buildings into smart buildings with IoT

<p>Where you today have limited control in buildings or facilities, IoT connectivity enables the digital control necessary for temperature regulation, ventilation control, refrigeration, and other systems. Once installed, IoT units (such as sensors) can send real-time data through the cellular network to an IoT platform, where you can monitor, manage and optimize installations.</p>



<p>Issues that once forced building managers to make expensive on-site visits to resolve can now be done digitally. In many cases, proper monitorisation can often address a potential fault before it becomes an issue. Managers could collect five times more data points with the appropriate technology. That's also five times the knowledge.</p>



<h2 id="h-data-driven-decisions-save-cash"><strong>Data-driven decisions save cash</strong></h2>



<p>The reality is that the building sector is a bit of a digitalization laggard. The data points needed to optimize energy efficiency (such as data on humidity, temperature, electricity consumption, and building infrastructure) that could be available and structured are often not.</p>



<p>Today, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2019/10/16/what-is-unstructured-data-and-why-is-it-so-important-to-businesses-an-easy-explanation-for-anyone/?sh=fa9c38815f64" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">80-90% of an organization's data is unstructured</a>. The collection of data would not only be used to lower energy consumption but also support decision-making on where to invest and why.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/11/edge-data-driven-by-PeopleImages-getty-images-signature-1400x933-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="Data-driven decisions save cash" class="wp-image-23749"/><figcaption>Use the data from Edge to make informed decisions about your buildings. Photo: PeopleImages / Getty Images Signature</figcaption></figure>



<h2 id="h-typical-faults-and-easy-remedies-for-heating-systems"><strong>Typical faults and easy remedies for heating systems</strong></h2>



<p>By reducing and adapting the supply temperature of the heating system using digital management – annual energy cost reductions in the range of 10%-15% are well achievable for large, multi-tenant buildings. Of course, depending on the specific case.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another critical aspect valuable to monitor is the early detection of technical faults in heating systems. Typical problems are malfunctioning temperature sensors or servo motors of valves. Here, unnecessary energy costs, heating system follow-up, repair, or replacement costs can be avoided by catching any issues early.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>From a property owner's perspective, improving property value is significant. And investment funds are optimizing their property asset portfolios from an energy efficiency perspective. While highly energy-inefficient buildings risk becoming stranded assets, energy management and optimization investments can significantly increase property value.</p>



<h4><strong><em>Ready to learn more? Calculate the potential benefits cellular IoT can add to your business.</em></strong></h4>



<span class="hs-cta-wrapper" id="hs-cta-wrapper-d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb"><span class="hs-cta-node hs-cta-d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb" id="hs-cta-d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb"><a href="https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8805657/d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="hs-cta-img" id="hs-cta-img-d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb" style="border-width:0px;" src="https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8805657/d3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb.png" alt="Go to Ericsson and try the value calculator"></a></span><script charset="utf-8" src="https://js.hscta.net/cta/current.js"></script><script type="text/javascript"> hbspt.cta.load(8805657, 'd3d25608-5a74-4564-aae2-2d48761d6edb', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); </script></span>



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<h2 id="h-why-invest-in-energy-management-systems"><strong>Why invest in energy management systems?</strong></h2>



<p>Smart building energy management has come a long way since James Southerland did construct his ECHO IV home computer in 1977, and the building segment has the clear potential to develop from a digitalization laggard to an innovation hot-shot.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With systems fed by an accelerating stream of data from physical and virtual sensors, it becomes more and more realistic to create comprehensive <a href="https://blog.thoughtwire.com/what-is-a-smart-building-digital-twin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital twins</a> of buildings. Digital twins represent not only the physical structures of buildings but also all active operating technology and building usage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Investments in data-driven <a href="https://kiona.com/solutions/for-energy-management/">energy management of buildings</a> can generate substantial business value. Quickly and with limited investments. This will not eliminate the need for building energy renovations but will allow us to improve energy efficiency quickly. The data collected provides insights into where to invest in a renovation to maximize the return on investment.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Improving energy efficiency through data analysis is just one aspect of managing a building and a great step toward enhancing the savings potential of properties. Our building management solutions get the most out of existing building technology and IoT to collect all the data you need to make sustainable future decisions. Good for business and good for the environment.&nbsp;</p>

Money talks – the business benefits of energy management

Go to product page

<p>Building owners, operations managers, and tenants want their buildings to meet specific standards. It's about keeping emissions down and consumption low. It's because we care about the footprint we leave behind. Environmental management is here to stay – and if you're going to keep up with the rest, there are some things you need to be in control of.</p>



<h2 id="h-daily-control-with-sustainable-management">Daily control with sustainable management</h2>



<p>ISO certifications, Eco-Lighthouse, the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, "Don't print this email," and source-sorting of waste are just some of the things we do to help make our workplace or building as sustainable as possible. However, if you seriously intend to put energy monitoring on the agenda, you must include more parameters.</p>



<p>It's not just about alerting people and managing energy. It's about everything we do that generates consumption. Like water, waste, CO<sub>2</sub>, and not least: reliable reporting of the key indicators that matter. This is how you reach your goal:</p>



<h2 id="h-energy-monitoring-and-a-bit-more-as-well">Energy monitoring – and a bit more as well</h2>





<p>With a full-scale EMS (Energy Monitoring System) solution, you can control all energy data, regardless of the communication protocol. This way, you can take control of your operations with precise measurement and evaluation of emissions. It's good for the environment and also reduces operating costs. And it doesn't stop there.</p>



<p>Because if you are going to be energy smart, you need an overview of both past and present consumption.</p>



<ul>
<li>Are the energy-saving measures producing results?</li>



<li>Is automation working as well as it should?</li>



<li>What are the buildings or processes where we should be implementing measures?</li>
</ul>



<p><a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a> will give you answers to all these questions.</p>



<h3 id="h-collection-of-environmental-data">Collection of environmental data</h3>



<p>You get to collect all types of consumption data in a user-friendly system. Measure energy, water, steam, pressure, temperature, or volume data in liters or kg. With an administrative tool tailored to waste and environmental management as well as energy consumption, you get all aspects of what counts – the bottom line.</p>



<h3 id="h-dashboards-and-reporting">Dashboards and reporting</h3>



<p>Set up your  dashboards with what's important to you, and get automatic report mailings. You can then identify discrepancies and opportunities for savings while having total flexibility in terms of the report tool tailored to your organization and particular industry.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/04/Energinet-Dashboard-eng.jpg" alt="Energinet Dashboard" class="wp-image-9174"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">See the most important data on your Energinet dashboard.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 id="h-what-are-you-waiting-for">What are you waiting for?</h2>



<p>If you currently have energy data in your Kiona solution, it is easy to connect Energinet. Combine alerts, management, and energy control in a single complete reporting tool – and you're well on your way to environmental measures that will impact your business.</p>

Environmental management is here to stay

Go to Zendesk

See help article to get started.

<p>Use the new app, <strong>"IWMAC Alarms"</strong>, to access your plant alarms from your phone.</p>



<p>This access lets you monitor and confirm alarms that occur so that you can stay updated and in control, no matter time and place. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-download-and-login">Download and login</h2>



<p>The app is freely accessible on IOS and Android handheld devices. The app can be downloaded from the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/ao/app/iwmac-alarms/id1633231306" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple App store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kiona.alarm_handler&amp;hl=en&amp;gl=US" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google play store</a>.</p>



<p>All users with an <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IWMAC</a> solution can use the app with their existing username and password. When logging in the first time, you can enable simple login with biometrics (FaceID/ fingerprints).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>SMS with alarms will have a link to open in the app (if you don't have the app, you will be sent to either Google Play or the Appstore)&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/11/IWMAC-alarm-app-700x452-ENG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23945"/></figure>



<ul>
<li>Confirm all alarms on one facility or several.</li>



<li>Monitor your plants on the go.</li>



<li>Simplified login using biometrics.</li>
</ul>

IWMAC alarm app – for you on the go

Jostein Markussen

Want to stay on top of your air quality? Check out our building management solutions.

<p>Building owners naturally want their tenants to be happy. If you manage a building, you probably feel partially responsible for ensuring this is the case. Because not only do people dislike bad air – it quite simply makes them less productive. It can even be harmful to health. With these tips, you can achieve your (indoor) climate goals – and save energy in the process.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-an-overview">Get an overview</h2>



<p>One obvious first step is to have a place to check the air quality. If you have the right components in the building, it should be easy to visualize – and easy to measure.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/11/IWMAC-floor-plan-office.png" alt="Floor plan overview with temperature settings in IWMAC." class="wp-image-22621"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image: The room overview in <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a> makes zone control a breeze.</figcaption></figure>



<p>"If you have a large building with lots of offices and meeting rooms, it can be difficult to check the air quality manually. An all too common way to solve this is simply to cross your fingers and wait until someone calls to complain. But if you want the people in your building to be happy, you can't always be reactive. And if you're going to keep on top of the issue, you need an overview," says Jostein Markussen of Kiona.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitor-the-parameters">Monitor the parameters</h2>



<p>The air quality in a room is a combination of several parameters: the actual volume of air entering the room, the amount of CO<sub>2</sub>, dust particles, and so on. But when people complain about "bad air," it's often the <em>temperature </em>they are truly unhappy with.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"That's something that can be a challenge for anyone in charge. If the temperature is too high, people may perceive it as poor air quality when it isn't. To be able to take the appropriate action, you need to know what the problem really is," says Jostein, who adds that the sensors on the market are getting better:&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Today's sensors can give you precise information about the parameters contributing to air quality. At Kiona, you can <a href="https://www.airthings.com/en/business" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integrate Airthings</a>, which measures everything from temperature and air pressure to volatile organic compounds (VOC) and radon, to take this one step further."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-make-sure-you-re-notified">Make sure you're notified</h2>



<p>If you want to be able to solve the problem before people start calling to complain, you need to be notified in time. With smart logic, you can automatically receive a notification when a specific parameter goes above or below certain limits – whether it's official limits or those of the building owner. You need to monitor and be notified about plenty of things: Is the air coming in where it should be? Is the ventilation system starting at the right time? Is it delivering the right volume of air?&nbsp;</p>



<p>"All these things affect both the air quality and energy consumption. If the capacity of a system isn't good enough, you need to be warned. The same is true if a filter is blocked. Remember that this results in both poorer air quality and increased energy consumption. But if you don't have monitoring with notifications, you won't know until someone complains. Or when you get your electricity bill," says Jostein.&nbsp;</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zone-control-is-valuable">Zone control is valuable</h2>



<p>Zone control is an approach that saves you energy costs – without compromising on air quality. A lot of people working from home at the moment? Maybe you can close the valve for specific zones to supply less air to them. That means lower energy consumption while still maintaining the indoor climate. Meeting and conference rooms that are only used occasionally? Providing ventilation around the clock is a waste of energy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It doesn't just have to be about ventilation either. If your heating is connected to and controlled by the same system, you can turn it on and off as needed. You can trigger it through sensors or systems for room bookings," says Jostein.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It's better for the indoor climate, better for your wallet, and better for the environment."&nbsp;</p>

How to ensure a perfect indoor climate

Mikael Lönner

Contact your Account Manager to know more.

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<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:66.66%">
<h3 id="h-product-edge">Product: <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge</a></h3>



<h3 id="h-new-riots-integration">New: Riots Integration</h3>



<p style="font-size:1em">You can now easily integrate and import temperature and humidity data from <a href="https://riots.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riots</a> to Edge. Riots are a Finnish device manufacturer specializing in building automation solutions.</p>
</div>



<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:33.33%">
<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-thumbnail"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/11/Apartment_edesta-150x150.jpg" alt="Riots Room sensor" class="wp-image-21860"/></figure>
</div>
</div>



<p>If you already have invested or will invest in a solution from Riots, you can use it with Edge. This opens up several opportunities for taking the next step in energy optimization and maintenance efficiency without new hardware investments. </p>



<p>This allows you to use your investments better and ensures that you optimally use the data.</p>



<ul><li>Use temperature and humidity data from Riots in Edge</li><li>No need for new hardware investment</li><li>Analyze your indoor climate in 3D buildings</li><li>Energy optimization with Edge AI self-learning algorithm</li><li>Full portfolio overview with the Smartphone App</li></ul>

Edge: Riots Integration

<p>The world around us is getting smarter and smarter. We see vehicles driving autonomously, drones fostering apple trees, body sensors surveilling our health status, and many other clever IoT applications. However, one of the industry segments with a relatively slow adaptation of smart solutions is the buildings sector, even though the energy efficiency of buildings is a hot topic – for all good reasons:&nbsp;</p>



<ul><li>Collectively, buildings in the EU are responsible for 40% of our energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions, which is not sustainable.&nbsp;</li><li>75% of Europe's buildings are not energy efficient today, and it is forecasted that <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/info/news/focus-energy-efficiency-buildings-2020-lut-17_en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">95% of those buildings will still be in use in 2050</a>. This means that, particularly in times of energy crises, property owners are leaving much money on the table&nbsp;</li><li>To reach the overall EU objective of a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030, the building sector would need to <a href="https://www.eea.europa.eu/data-and-maps/indicators/greenhouse-gas-emissions-from-energy/assessment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reduce its emissions by 60%;</a> this couldn't be more demanding.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>



<p>Europe is undergoing an energy crisis, and many utility companies are falling back to fossil-based energy production to meet the demand. So, where do you invest?</p>



<h2 id="h-steel-and-concrete-or-iot-and-ai"><strong>Steel and concrete or IoT and AI?</strong></h2>



<p>The most obvious way to address the above challenges is physical updates; to improve building insulation, replace blowing windows, and replace fossil-based heating systems with heat pumps and solar panels. This needs to be done, but let's face it – you can't do this overnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The current energy renovation rate of building stocks in Europe is 1%, and most of today's global building stock will still exist in 2050. Suppose the building sector is to reduce its carbon emissions by 60% by 2030. In that case, the energy renovation rate of Europe's building stock needs to double – quite a challenge given the souring costs for building materials and the scarcity of resources in this industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>As for many industries, digitalization offers another way to address challenges. Collecting all sorts of data related to the indoor climate of a building; weather conditions, energy consumption, and heating system performance helps turn questions into answers.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/05/multi-residential-1.jpg" alt="Collecting building data with IoT solutions." class="wp-image-7446"/><figcaption>Image: By analyzing and visualizing this data, you can create valuable insights into the energy performance of a building, steer heating and cooling systems (optimizing the building's energy consumption), and minimize carbon emissions.</figcaption></figure>



<p>This approach creates value not by building insulation and window replacement but by leveraging <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IoT and AI engines</a> to collect and process building data.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>The technology is here</strong>, the investments needed are much smaller than mechanical construction, and results can be achieved much faster. But let's be clear: Smart building solutions are complementary to the energy renovation of buildings; they don't replace it.</p>





<h2 id="h-where-iot-meets-the-property-sector"><strong>Where IoT meets the property sector</strong></h2>



<p>Success in building automation has many enablers, ranging from AI systems to sensors and actuators, and last but not least, IoT connectivity. The key to success in this industry segment is the co-value creation in ecosystems that turn smart buildings into reality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With that in mind, we explored the true value and impact of IoT-connected buildings together with <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ericsson</a> and <a href="https://www.adlittle.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arthur D. Little</a>. The report <strong>Connected Buildings Energy Management</strong> elevates the need to monitor, control, and optimize energy usage – enabling property owners to decrease energy costs and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions.</p>



<span class="hs-cta-wrapper" id="hs-cta-wrapper-307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454"><span class="hs-cta-node hs-cta-307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454" id="hs-cta-307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454"><a href="https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/8805657/307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="hs-cta-img" id="hs-cta-img-307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454" style="border-width:0px;" height="300" width="700" src="https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/8805657/307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454.png" alt="Connected Buildings Energy Management. Go to Ericsson and download now."></a></span><script charset="utf-8" src="https://js.hscta.net/cta/current.js"></script><script type="text/javascript"> hbspt.cta.load(8805657, '307ab3f0-52c8-4e65-8a7d-1a32b3fbb454', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); </script></span>

The energy efficiency of buildings – the pressure is on!

Helen Torgersen

IWMAC: Updated design of the list view

Contact Sales

Take control of your facilities energy use - speak to one of our experts today.

All you need to know about saving energy

Want to know how you can capture the energy thieves in your building?

<p>The minds behind Kiona have been in pursuit of energy thieves for almost two decades. Over this time, we have identified several eager repeat offenders. Here are the usual suspects.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-1-the-ventilation-system-the-suspect-is-well-known"><strong>1. The ventilation system – the suspect is well known.</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<p>At Kiona, we often find that customers are stunned when they see the energy calculations for their building. They are often in the dark about the substantial potential for making savings. The ventilation system is nearly always mixed up in this affair.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The most common event is that the system is running around the clock or has too much uptime. It's important to remember that you're not only trying to save energy but that you need to distribute load across the 24-hour day so that you avoid expensive energy tariffs. At the same time, you should never compromise on air quality. All this requires a lot of logic," says Jostein Markussen from Kiona.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-2-valve-leaks-energy-straight-down-the-drain"><strong>2. Valve leaks – energy straight down the drain.</strong></h2>



<p>Leaky valves is yet another repeat offender. It is an extensive system, most frequently comprising several valves open for warm water and one for cold water. If the valve on your cooling coil is leaking, this is compensated for by adding more heat. Over time, this can all add up to a terrifying energy bill.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The problem here is that a fault like this isn't always easy to spot because there may be something physically wrong with the valve. The imaging and systems may be telling you everything is all nice and fine and sealed. It's only when you analyze the temperature graphs that you see that things aren't how they should be," says Markussen. He also adds:&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We can carry out this kind of analysis on your behalf completely automatically. Using <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a>/<a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a>, we can set up rules to look for abnormal temperature fluctuations through autonomous systems. You'll then be notified if something has gone wrong – or if it happens in the future."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-3-district-heating-snow-melting-facility-cunning-swindlers"><strong>3. District heating/ snow melting facility – cunning swindlers.</strong>&nbsp;</h2>





<p>A snow-melting facility around an entrance or loading bay can be worth its weight in gold for businesses in the northern hemisphere that experiences heavy snow and ice in winter. However, it can cost the earth if you don't control it properly. The more energy-intensive a system is, the more critical it is to optimize it to the exact details. Many facilities like this are left running for longer than they need to be.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/10/System_installed_snowless_Brandenburg_Germany.jpeg" alt="System installed snowless, Brandenburg, Germany" class="wp-image-21393" width="800" height="563"/><figcaption>Snowmelt system installed in Brandenburg, Germany. Photo: Saninfo1993, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons</figcaption></figure>



<p>A typical solution is to use a snow detector. Such detectors can notify the system when it discovers snow or ice. However, suppose you combine this with <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions/forecast-based-control/">forecast-based control</a> considering data from the Meteorological Institute. In that case, you can start preheating to prevent any snow or ice from settling.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In some cases, the caretaker manually controls snow melting based on the weather forecast. This method is rarely the most effective way to manage the system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It might have been good enough to let the system come on at 3 a.m. instead of turning it on the evening before, or it could be turned off if the weather forecast was for snow to turn sunny and above freezing later on. That kind of smart forecast-based control can save a lot of money over time."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Our very own Ståle Eriksen has his own story to share about a customer:&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We had a customer who had their ground heating running over the summer, costing them 5 000 EUR every month. The problem is that people don't know about it. They might be told that something is broken, but what about when it's just burning through your cash? You have to actively monitor it, and most people don't have time for that."</p>



<h2 id="h-4-the-heat-regenerator-is-your-excess-heat-going-up-in-smoke"><strong>4. The heat regenerator – is your excess heat going up in smoke?</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<p>If your building has a heat pump or your store features a cooling and freezing system, you have a heat regenerator. It enables you to do something useful with your excess heat. If you don't need it, it goes up to the roof and straight into the sky.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Unfortunately, this is something that we find is happening all too often. Many don't have good enough systems in place to notify them or override their heat regenerator if a need elsewhere in the building appears. That's as wasteful as it gets," says Eriksen.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-the-world-s-best-investigator-and-caretaker"><strong>The world's best investigator – and caretaker</strong></h2>



<p>Common to all of these thieves is that they are pretty easy to seize – if you know where to look. The problem is that even if you have an excellent overview of your energy use, you do not necessarily know whether it is as low as it could be.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Simply having an overview often gives you a false sense of security. The full benefit of your overview requires either specialist expertise or regular analysis. It takes time, and no matter what, things can always happen after you have left for the day. How many people review the history and check out that kind of thing?" asks Markussen.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Maybe you only run an analysis when you perform your monthly review of the EMS system (<em>Energy Management System</em>) or when you get your electricity bill? But by then, the invoice is already due for payment."&nbsp;</p>





<p>The solution is as simple as it is ingenious. Using Kiona's smart, data-driven limits, the system can capture whether the building is being wasteful – and notify you of the problem.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"They analyze your consumption on an ongoing basis so that you spot when something isn't working as it should. This encompasses both physical faults and when something can be tweaked to make it more efficient. We refer to these functions as "the caretaker that never sleeps" because they not only let you know, but they try to fix the problem themselves through applying logic," says Markussen.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This way, you can simply ensure that your building uses as little energy as possible without compromising anywhere else."&nbsp;</p>

4 common energy thieves – and how to deal with them

Martin Eksberg

Want to know more about how you can optimize energy with AI?

<p>The project's objectives were, and are, to create connected and energy-efficient residential properties in Västerås Municipality by applying digital systems for energy optimization and power balancing. Entirely in line with Mälarenergi's work on the development of District Heating 2.0 (Fjärrvärme 2.0).</p>



<p>The pilot project was launched in July 2021, where our <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">AI optimization service, Edge</a>, was activated on six buildings selected by Bostads AB Mimer, with 2020 as the reference year. Now, one year later, the results of the project are ready.</p>



<h2 id="h-results"><strong>Result</strong>s</h2>



<ul><li>Energy use reduced by -12.2% (normal year adjusted by energy index, compared to the reference year 2020)&nbsp;</li><li>The efficiency corresponds to an annual reduction in heating costs of -33 227 EUR (corresponding to an increased property value of 664 542 EUR at a 5% yield)</li><li>A positive impact on the balancing of power output in district heating through lower power signatures.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/10/pilotprojekt-1024x662.jpg" alt="Effektiv energianvändning i Västerås pilotprojekt" class="wp-image-20614"/><figcaption>Some of the buildings in the pilot project, optimized by Edge. Photo: Bostads AB Mimer</figcaption></figure>



<p>"Given the current state of the world, with an ongoing energy crisis that is leading to a sharp increase in costs for both electricity and district heating and putting incredible pressure on energy companies and real estate companies, the issue of energy efficiency and power balancing becomes even more relevant," says Joacim Sundqvist, Energy Strategist at <a href="https://www.malarenergi.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mälarenergi</a>.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>Connected properties create greater flexibility both for the property owner and its staff but also for us as an energy company in how we can plan our distribution over different periods of the day. I see this as a continued exciting project, especially for the coming autumn and winter when the City of Västerås and we will benefit greatly from cooperation with Mimer and Kiona.</p><cite>Joacim Sundqvist</cite></blockquote>



<p>During the energy transition and to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda, they are taking several strategic sustainable steps and setting their sights high. The Smart City project is part of this.</p>





<h2 id="h-successful-project">Successful project</h2>



<p>"In terms of energy, I think the results speak for themselves, but it is also interesting how other soft values such as indoor climate, reduced error reports, a more efficient way of working, monitoring, analysis, and follow-up have contributed to the internal structure in a positive way," says Eric Johansson, Energy Specialist at <a href="https://www.mimer.nu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bostads AB Mimer</a>.</p>



<p>"I see it as a very successful project for everyone involved, and it will be very interesting to build on it and look at the next steps on how we together can find further synergies within this smart city project both for the building stock and for the district heating network," he concludes.</p>



<p>"We offer technical solutions that help partners build long-term sustainable solutions in collaboration with their customers, and this is a successful example of the smart city theme, where both an energy producer and energy consumer benefit from joint solutions at each end," says Martin Eksberg, Head of Business at Kiona Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

Efficient energy use in Västerås – the smart city

So leave the birds to get chilly – waste less heat and have lower energy bills. 

<p>Using energy to create heat that no one uses is the same as throwing money out the window. Not only is it unnecessary and bad for the environment, but you might also be caught short when the electricity bill arrives.</p>



<h2 id="h-get-an-overview">Get an overview</h2>



<p>In the past, it might have been difficult to find a good midpoint between icy outdoor temperatures and stuffy indoor heat in the winter, but this is no longer the case. In Europe, buildings account for around 40% of total energy consumption. This means that it pays to take better care of the energy we create. Here are some tips for sending you on the path to greener consumption:</p>





<h2>1. Be aware of energy consumption</h2>



<p>Enova's research shows that simply being aware of energy consumption can help you save up to 5%. Additionally, getting something down on paper makes it easier to identify and implement energy-saving measures. How much energy do we want to use? How many emissions will we save the environment from? </p>



<h2>2.&nbsp;Evaluate the technical system</h2>



<p>Failure or improper use of technical systems often leads to increased energy consumption. Assessing the system's condition is the first step in identifying energy loss. Continuous monitoring is a good investment for your wallet and the environment – you'll notice discrepancies sooner! &nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-3-use-an-energy-management-system">3.&nbsp; Use an energy management system</h2>





<p>Energy data that requires manual handling gets forgotten after a while. An&nbsp;<a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">energy monitoring system</a>&nbsp;(EOS) can be a good tool for fully understanding the system's energy consumption. <em> </em></p>





<h2 id="h-4-rehabilitate-old-buildings">4.&nbsp;"Rehabilitate" old buildings</h2>



<p>Old buildings often use more energy, but this doesn't mean you should build new ones. There are many ways to optimize old systems, for example, with&nbsp;IWMAC's add-on Smart functions. </p>



<p>In older buildings, you will often find an old central heating system from one supplier and a heat pump from another. Our SCADA solution becomes the "interpreter" between these systems and provides easy integration with everything you need to optimize.  &nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-5-monitor-your-energy-consumption">5.&nbsp;Monitor your energy consumption</h2>



<p>If you have a system that doesn't have some form of load control, you're probably using more energy than necessary. If your energy consumption suddenly increases, your energy bill can get expensive, something you'll be paying for for a long time afterward. With a&nbsp;smart guard, you can ensure your spending is always below the limit. This way, you can easily avoid throwing energy out the window.</p>





<h2 id="h-6-heat-where-needed">6.&nbsp;Heat where needed</h2>



<p>Zone management is worth its weight in gold when discussing saving energy and is more relevant than ever. There is a big difference between the heat and ventilation required when the building is half full and when it's jam-packed.</p>



<p>You can set up IoT sensors that provide information about how the building is used. The SCADA system can then automatically&nbsp;stop heating the parts of the building that are left empty without the need to lay a single cable. </p>





<h2 id="h-7-control-using-calendar-and-weather-forecasts">7.&nbsp;Control using calendar and weather forecasts </h2>



<p>Holidays and weekends are the typical times we know the building will be empty. It pays to keep a good base temperature while also saving energy. Afraid that the building won't be warm enough tomorrow morning? You can easily solve this with&nbsp;calendar-based control. </p>



<p>It's also nice to manage the building according to the weather, not what it is&nbsp;right now. Why not turn off the temperature in the building three hours before it becomes warm outside? As such,&nbsp;forecast-based control&nbsp;is a clever way to prepare the installation. </p>





<h2 id="h-why-save-thousands-on-your-electricity-bill">Why save thousands on your electricity bill? </h2>



<p>… other than for the money saved? There are many reasons to put energy efficiency on your list of priorities. &nbsp;</p>



<p>We spend a lot of time indoors in the Nordic countries. Incorrect temperature is one of the most significant contributors to poor indoor air quality. Ever complained about "bad" air? Often this means it's too hot. Increased heat also makes us more vulnerable to pollutants in the air, and the ventilation system usually has to work twice as hard. &nbsp;</p>



<p> Saving energy also benefits the environment and helps us to reduce unnecessary emissions and meet our sustainability goals. It is also good for your body, soul, and conscience.</p>

Are you wasting your energy? 7 tips for lower energy bills

Contact your Key Account Manager to find out more

<div class="wp-block-columns">
<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:66.66%">
<h3 id="h-product-edge">Product: <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge</a></h3>



<h3>New: X2 Wireless integration</h3>



<p class="has-text-align-left" style="font-size:1em">You can now easily integrate and import your wireless fire sensors from <a href="https://www.x2wireless.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X2 Wireless</a> to Edge. X2 Wireless provides a sensor system for those who want to feel calm, safe, and in control of what's happening. Their sensors can warn of fire, measure temperature, and much more.</p>
</div>



<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:33.33%">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/10/X2_smoke_500px.png" alt="X2 wireless sensor - Smoke" class="wp-image-20049"/></figure>
</div>
</div>



<p>If you already have invested or will invest in IoT products from X2 wireless, you can easily use it with Edge. Fire alarms from X2 Wireless also register the temperature in apartments that can be integrated into Edge. This opens up several opportunities when you want to take the next step in building control and maintenance efficiency without new hardware investments.</p>



<p>This allows you to use your investments better and ensures that you optimally use the data.</p>



<ul><li>Use temperature data from X2 Wireless in Edge</li><li>No need for new hardware investment</li><li>Analyze your properties in 3D</li><li>Energy optimization with Edge's self-learning algorithm</li><li>Full portfolio overview with Smartphone App</li></ul>

Edge: X2 Wireless integration

Want to know how you can save energy usage and utilize spot prices in your systems?

<p>Making the most out of every kilowatt is more critical than ever. All over Europe, we're trying to keep the energy use down while the bills keep climbing. The energy crisis is gripping the world, with potentially grave consequences.</p>





<p>If optimization in the real estate industry has often been about acting responsibly and reducing climate impact, it is now about coping in the short term with a coming winter crisis with skyrocketing electricity prices and overcoming the grid load problem, says Jon Åkerström.&nbsp;</p>



<p>We have experienced strong interest from our partners to offer tools for smarter electricity use and reduced costs. By shifting electricity use to periods with less load on the grid, we can help control Europe's energy load problem and save money on electricity bills at the same time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>This is especially useful when you want to reduce high costs related to electricity prices. When heating pools, cooling down ice-hockey rinks, or switching between energy sources – you can make sure that you shift loads to non-busy hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>





<h2 id="h-spot-prices-in-web-port-iwmac-energinet-and-edge">Spot prices in Web Port, IWMAC, Energinet, and Edge&nbsp;</h2>



<p>We are proud to contribute in our way with what we do best. That's why we're delivering free access to real-time spot prices reflecting the European electricity market operated by Nord Pool in all Kiona products.&nbsp;</p>





<p>Nord Pool is the official electricity trading exchange for 16 European countries, meaning electricity use can be managed and planned more intelligently.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>Spot prices are updated at 13:00 every day and contain data for the upcoming 24 hours.</em></p>



<h2 class="has-medium-font-size"><a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/portal-module/">Web Port</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<ul><li>The electricity spot prices are freely available for all customers on a subscription model.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Access to spot prices through tags and scripting language enables the creation of smart solutions for electricity, effectively controlling building systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Build operational images and report pages that can visualize future, current and historical price data.&nbsp;</li><li>Partners can also use Blockly as a high-level "drag and drop" programming language. Spot prices will be a component ready for use.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://vimeo.com/762557479
</div><figcaption><strong>Video:</strong> Spot prices as a component ready to use in Blockly.</figcaption></figure>



<p></p>



<h2><a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<ul><li>The electricity spot prices data is a freely available add-on to <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions/">Smart Functions</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Partners and customers can utilize IWMAC Smart Functions with this new feature on existing or new plants to target the challenges involved with high electricity prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Tailor-made operational images are available that visualize future, current, and historical price data on the operations.</li><li>For customers with API access, you can utilize the spot price data in third-party systems for free.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/09/IWMAC-Spot-price-1024x576.png" alt="Spot prices directly in IWMAC" class="wp-image-16877" width="700"/><figcaption><strong>Image:</strong> Example of visualization of future, current, and historical price data with spot prices in IWMAC.</figcaption></figure>



<h2><a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/">Energinet</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<ul><li>The spot price is freely available for all customers.&nbsp;</li><li>Create reports containing meters with electricity spot prices to, for example, give you insights into how your equipment affects your total operational costs.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/09/Energinet-Spot-price.png" alt="Spot price graphs in Energinet" class="wp-image-16869" width="700"/><figcaption><strong>Image:</strong> Energinet spot price graphs for various geographic locations.</figcaption></figure>



<h2><a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/">Edge</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<ul><li>For customers with API access, you can utilize the spot price data in third-party systems for free.&nbsp;</li><li>Tailor-made Insights reports are available using future, current and historical price data.&nbsp;</li></ul>

We take responsibility in the energy crisis – offering spot prices to all subscribing customers

Marte Engdal

Want to know more about Alarm Monitoring 24/7?

<h5 id="h-product-iwmac">Product: IWMAC</h5>



<h5 id="h-new-alarm-monitoring-incident-report">New: Alarm Monitoring incident report</h5>



<p>See what happens at our alarm center at all times (for customers with <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a>s add-on <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/alarm-monitoring-24-7/">Alarm Monitoring 24/7</a>).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<ul><li>Every call-out done by our alarm operators will often be noted with an explanation of the incident, the date of notification, and the number/person who is notified. &nbsp;</li><li>You can see all incidents in the same overview if you have multiple plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Additional improvements have been made to the backend to give you a better experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>



<p>The incident report is now available for all customers with Alarm Monitoring 24/7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>To access it:</strong> Click on the "<em>Call log" </em>button accessible from the menu (upper right-hand corner) in Operation Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/09/ENG_call_log_system_image.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-16158" width="700" height="404"/></figure>

IWMAC: Alarm Monitoring incident report

Ståle Eriksen

<p>Warm buildings, good ventilation, hot water, immediate lighting, and great coffee – energy means a lot to us. It keeps technologies running and indoor climates pleasant, and all require power.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While experts continue to predict that energy charges will rise – it seems to leave many of us facing cloudy times in the future. Our heating systems also work a little extra as the weather gets colder. And if you're reaching summertime, our cooling systems must push a bit more.</p>



<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-good-interplay-can-slash-bills" style="font-style:normal;font-weight:700"><strong>Good interplay can slash bills</strong></h2>



<p>We must eradicate "power thieves" and keep power loads under control to <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions/">stop the electricity bills from running wild</a>.</p>



<p>"Controlling the interplay between cooling and heating is worth its weight in gold when it comes to reducing bills, as well as controlling the related automatic systems. Control prevents money being thrown out of the window with the various sources of heating and cooling working against each other," says Ståle Eriksen, Key Account Manager at Kiona.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>He adds that many "obvious things" aren't discovered until it's too late.</p>



<p>"Monitoring systems manually requires masses of attention. The to-do list is often long. Having control of all the various systems' cloud-configured' means there is no need to worry. When it's minus 20 outside, air conditioning and cooling won't be running. Heating and snow-melting systems won't be on in the middle of summer."</p>



<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" style="font-style:normal;font-weight:700"><strong>Power tricks that work</strong></h2>



<p>Control systems use logic and fixed threshold values to interpret incoming operating data and use them to adjust temperatures, start/stop equipment and smooth out power curves. They do this primarily before we users would notice anything.</p>





<p>Implementing measures that affect costs requires timely data.</p>



<p>"We set up rules to enable all connected systems to work 'smarter.' They then optimize, streamline and proactively give notifications of adjustments that can save energy. This means direct savings on the bill," Eriksen explains.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" style="font-style:normal;font-weight:700"><strong>Reduce energy consumption with efficient control</strong></h2>



<p>Naturally enough, the length of use and the power demanded by technical equipment affect how much energy we consume. Yet, if we are not aware of how much energy we are using, we can't know if we are underperforming or if it's possible to improve.</p>



<p>Electrical devices often present heavy power loads when they are heating. Fortunately, we do not have to run our coffee makers for long periods. Other small things can also help cut consumption. Examples include turning off unnecessary lights, heating via cooling systems' surplus heat (rather than electricity), and using some time/need/weather-report controlled ventilation.</p>



<p>"It's not just these things either. Intelligent control of installations also makes life easier for any building's technical crew. Faults can be detected sooner and time spent on more important things." "Again, without having to worry too much about the bills, energy-efficient control still gives us good, warm buildings in the middle of winter. With a little luck, we can also leave our extra sweaters in their drawers a little longer," concludes Eriksen.</p>

How can we overcome skyrocketing energy prices?

Viktor Bardun

Make sure your produce always stays fresh

<p>Temperature control is mostly about ensuring food safety, and we have strict requirements for fridges and freezers in Europe. The main rules are that</p>



<ol type="1"><li>perishable foodstuffs must be stored at 4 °C or lower</li><li>the cold chain must be uninterrupted</li><li>the temperature of freezers should be -18 °C or lower</li></ol>



<p>But even in the good fight against microorganisms, it's foolish to use more energy than necessary. So it's worth looking closely at the product: What is the specified storage method? If you have several products that can withstand temperatures higher than 4 °C, you can store them together in a separate cabinet. It's a waste of energy to keep them at a lower temperature than necessary.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-cold-is-too-cold-for-your-refrigeration-units"><strong>How cold is too cold for your refrigeration units?</strong></h2>





<p>Of course, when it comes to your freezer, it's not like -36 °C is twice as good as -18 °C. Anything below 22 °C is, in practice, the equivalent of throwing energy right out of the window. So it's best to keep the temperature in the freezer within this 4-degree range. The temperature will fluctuate, but if you have IWMAC monitoring, you'll get reports with temperature logs every 24 hours. That way, you can quickly check if products are in danger – or if there is energy to be saved.</p>



<h2><strong>Cool facts about temperatures</strong></h2>



<p>At Kiona, we often visit new customers at supermarkets to supply training. Once accurate temperature monitoring is in place, many have a real lightbulb moment. Here are the most common experiences, summarised in three practical temperature tips.</p>



<h3><strong>1. Close the door to the freezer or refrigerated room when restocking</strong></h3>



<p>Heat exchange happens faster than you think. Ensure that the refrigerated/freezer room door does not leak, and never leave it open while restocking items. Otherwise, warm air and moisture can sneak in, and ice forms.</p>



<h3><strong>2. Don't let the ventilation work against you</strong></h3>



<p>Fridges and freezers are seriously affected by the temperature and air humidity elsewhere in the store. When summer finally arrives, this is especially important to look at and address. If it's 20 °C in the store with 40% humidity – as it is in winter – you'll have around a 55% load on the refrigerated counter and freezer. However, if it is 20 °C with 60% humidity, the load will quickly become 75%. And that's something you need to keep in mind.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>I have even seen ventilation systems blowing 27 °C warm and humid summer air into the store. Then we're talking a load of over 100 percent. It's a complete waste when two systems are fighting against each other.</p><cite><em>Viktor Bardun, Sales Coordinator, Kiona</em></cite></blockquote>



<p>Want control of your uptime? <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">Let your ventilation, cooling, and heating work together!</a></p>



<h3><strong>3. Don't leave the door of the store open</strong> </h3>



<p>And last but by no means least: We understand that it can be tempting to leave the store's door open in the summer. Many people do, but it's not good for your refrigeration and freezer system. Better to have the store a little cold and close the door. This gives your food a safer environment and reduces your fridge's freeze burden – and your electricity bill.</p>

How to store food - and save energy

Find your contact

Contact your Key Account Manager to know more

<h5 id="h-product-iwmac"><strong>Product: </strong>IWMAC</h5>



<h5><strong>New: </strong>Outlook integration</h5>



<p>You can now connect to <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a> through your Microsoft Outlook calendar. </p>



<ul><li>See upcoming bookings directly in IWMAC.&nbsp;</li><li>Everyone who has access to use a meeting room, event space, or similar can do this the same way you would typically book a meeting in Outlook.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/08/IWMAC-Outlook-integration-time-schedule-1024x565.jpg" alt="Oulook intergation for IWMAC" class="wp-image-15836"/><figcaption>IWMAC's Time Schedule is connected to your team's Outlook calendar for easy zone management.</figcaption></figure>



<p>It can be used in many different cases, for example:</p>



<p>IWMAC works to prepare the space by making sure you get the right temperature at the right time, based on set values. You can adjust these according to your wishes and needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Outlook integration can be an asset both when you want to book a meeting space or turn on the lights of your local sports team's football pitch. Here we meet advanced automation with a simple user interface such as Outlook.&nbsp;All these events can then be booked through outlook and have different pre-defined settings in IWMAC&nbsp;</p>



<p>This means that you can avoid using an unnecessary amount of energy. The system calculates how many hours in advance one must preheat or cool to reach the set point at the correct time.&nbsp;</p>

IWMAC: Outlook integration

Ready to find your perfect solution?

<p>Most buildings today have some sort of smartness to them. Whether it is lighting, HVAC, automation, energy management solutions, or a combination of multiple systems – the same question often comes to mind: how smart do your systems really have to be to keep up with growing demands?</p>



<p>The truth is that technology simply doesn’t age at the same rate as bricks or steel. But just like an old brick stone building should be upgraded rather than torn down, you should give your technical installations the same shot. So, where do you begin?</p>



<h2 id="h-start-with-a-plan">Start with a plan</h2>



<p>Some begin small, utilizing sensors and choosing to connect a few installations to an IoT platform. Maybe with a plan to connect further down the road. Others have carved their goal in stone, going all out with integrating multiple systems from the get-go, knowing it will save them money in the long run.</p>





<p>Which route is the best for you is dependent on your goal. That’s why there is no such thing as one size fits all when it comes to <a href="https://kiona.com/solutions/for-building-management/">building automation solutions</a>. But some planning ahead can make it easier to start off on the right foot.</p>



<h2 id="h-challenges-in-integrating-smart-buildings-and-how-to-get-ahead">Challenges in integrating smart buildings – and how to get ahead</h2>



<p>Both building owners and facility managers can face some headaches when implementing automation to buildings today, especially retrofitted or renovated ones from another era. In these buildings, the technical equipment usually mixes both old and new – making it difficult to integrate.</p>



<h3 id="h-step-1-choosing-the-right-solution">Step 1: Choosing the right solution</h3>



<p>While you may view conflicting systems as a stumbling block, the first step is recognizing them as an opportunity. Because in what better way can you deliver real, measurable change than by analyzing existing data – and becoming better?</p>



<p>Now, let’s step back to your great plan again. Is your goal to reduce operational costs? Then you might focus on your core installations, such as ventilation, heating, or larger cooling systems. Then you can benefit from using a SCADA platform to connect your installations.</p>



<p>For others, the most important thing may be to stay on top of temperatures and be alerted if faults should happen. Looking for&nbsp;<strong>options that allow you to add on other systems or solutions</strong>&nbsp;later is a great way to ensure scalable possibilities that you won’t grow out of right away.</p>



<h3 id="h-step-2-utilizing-ready-to-connect-technology-with-existing-systems">Step 2: Utilizing ready-to-connect technology with existing systems</h3>



<p>The strength of more modern building systems is the ability to share data. Make sure that you choose independent solutions utilizing open protocols, APIs, or drivers. This allows systems from various vendors, such as ventilation and lighting, to communicate with each other and transport information.</p>





<p>Put in an open management platform, like an IoT platform or a more extensive SCADA system, you get a better view of the performance of your installations and a better understanding of your building. If you have multiple buildings, you can use the same platform to gather all information from your operations – making you better understand your consumption as a whole and make changes to optimize operations.</p>



<h3 id="h-step-3-support-and-adjustments-for-the-future-every-so-often">Step 3: Support and adjustments for the future – every so often</h3>



<p>The tech you find in building automation systems today is more complex than ever before. Set a plan for reviewing technical installations and software every so often, and utilize some expert help every once in a while to keep everything running smoothly.</p>



<p>Creating energy-efficient, sustainable buildings for the future is all about reusing, updating, and choosing technology built around open APIs and protocols. This way, you can ensure that the integrations you make today are possible to scale, build on and continue to use – for years to come.</p>

Future-proof integrations – and how you get there 

Want to create the most flexible building going forward?

<p>Recently, office buildings have been more or less empty, office rents are decreasing, and more people are seeing great benefits from continuing to work from home. How flexible is your building when working patterns vary day by day?</p>



<h2 id="h-when-50-becomes-10">When 50 becomes 10</h2>



<p>How many people are in the building – or rather: how many are not there – plays a big role in managing indoor climate and energy use. A good tip is to not heat the whole building if there are only a few in one area. Maybe you can also put the brakes on the ventilation system without compromising the indoor climate.&nbsp;</p>



<p>An advantage of <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a> is that it is easy to adjust and customize the building. With IoT sensors, you can add new technology to an existing system without spending money on wiring and installation. Money saved is money earned, especially when you can make existing automation even smarter.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-energy-saving-made-easy">Energy-saving made easy</h2>



<p>There is already plenty to think about without adding energy costs to the list. Many people find it challenging to keep track of energy costs, energy use, and optimization of the technical setup of the building. With an energy monitoring system, the job becomes a little easier. Then you can be sure that you don't use more energy than necessary.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because when your electricity bill needs to be taken care of, you shouldn't have to be on-site to make a change. Why not let IWMAC's intelligent SCADA system be in control? If you weigh up the energy costs, the investment probably pays for itself.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It makes moving the office several miles away a little easier, right?</p>

The future of hybrid work

Learn about monitoring energy consumption and temperatures

<p>The <a href="https://www.seedvault.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Svalbard Global Seed Vault</a> was opened in 2008 and is now home to over one million seed samples. Some people have compared it to Noah's ark. Others have called it a frozen Garden of Eden. The biblical allegories suggest the seriousness of the issue.</p>



<p>"This is not our biggest assignment, but it may well be our most important. It's with a certain sense of awe that we look after what may come to look after all of us eventually," says Jostein Markussen of Kiona.</p>



<h2 id="h-with-eyes-on-mother-earth-s-backup-monitoring"><strong>With eyes on mother earth's backup – monitoring</strong></h2>



<p>It all started when the company Kuldeteknisk (now PTG), a Kiona-certified partner, won the tender to supply the refrigeration plant to total contractor Hæhre. They knew who they wanted to bring along with them as a subcontractor.</p>



<p>"We do a lot of good things with Kiona. They deliver reliable solutions and are flexible, and we work well together. If we need anything, they solve it for us. That's how it was in this case, too," says Martin Corneliussen, project manager at PTG.</p>



<p>While PTG supplies the equipment, Kiona is responsible for monitoring the technical equipment, such as the dehumidification system and CO2 machine, using the SCADA system IWMAC. They're also responsible for monitoring energy consumption and temperatures – from the main door into the innermost and holiest storage areas.&nbsp;</p>



<h2><strong>Overview – and remote control</strong></h2>



<p>Thanks to detailed system images, the cooling contractor can monitor that everything is working correctly. "That's the key to this project," says Corneliussen.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"All the aspects here are important, but without monitoring, we wouldn't be able to maintain control of what's happening. That's vital for Statsbygg, the Norwegian government's building commissioner. They've completed major modifications and are very keen on maintaining a complete overview," he continues.</p>





<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2022/04/svalbard-seedvault-alamy-P2PPYH-1440x958-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="Inside the Svalbard Global Seed Vault" class="wp-image-1460"/><figcaption>Photo: Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Seed Bank) in Svalbard, Norway. Photo by Hemis / Alamy</figcaption></figure>



<p>At the same time, it's not just about monitoring because what if something needs to be changed? Markussen at Kiona explains that the overview is only half the story.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It's one thing always to have a clear picture of what's happening, but you also need control. Our system allows service partners to remotely control and customize the system from anywhere in the world. So they don't need to travel to Svalbard to make changes."&nbsp;</p>





<h2><strong>The value of perfect temperature</strong></h2>



<p>There are several reasons why Platåberget mountain on Svalbard was chosen. One of them is that the mountain is frozen.</p>



<p>"In other words, what is stored there is not just artificially refrigerated. That provides an extra level of security as a fail-safe. If the human systems failed, the seeds would still stay cold," says Corneliussen at PTG.</p>



<p>But the correct temperature is also about predictability and stability. And the site owner's instructions are clear: The temperature must be -18 °C. No more, no less.</p>



<p>"It is our job to achieve that precise temperature," he explains and concludes:</p>



<p>"And using IWMAC, we can both ensure and document that we can do just that."</p>

The icy Guardians of Svalbard

Check out Edge

Want to know more about our self-learning AI engine?

<p>Mitra Hajigholi and Raghunath Vairamuth are data scientists focusing on machine learning and data analysis with Kiona. They have worked on several projects connected to data science, such as <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/peak-control/">Peak Control</a> 2.0, AI-steering, and predictive maintenance.</p>





<p>One valuable result is our control algorithm, which allows us to see how energy consumption varies at different temperatures in real-time. Previously, energy consumption was analyzed and compared based on reference year data.</p>



<h2 id="h-customer-insights">Customer insights</h2>



<p>Mitra and Raghunath's work with the platform continues. One important aspect of this is to collect relevant data based on customers' needs for information.</p>



<p>Mitra has completed several interviews to determine what data customers want to see, are interested in, and why this information is vital to them. The data generated will be used to create new Machine Learning algorithms. This will allow us to develop better, intuitive, and visual reports that can be tailored for each customer.</p>





<p>We have also collected more weather-related data points to improve our control algorithm. In this way, we can help customers identify energy peaks on a larger scale. We can also proactively warn energy companies days in advance, says Raghunath.</p>



<h2 id="h-using-data-to-increase-energy-efficiency">Using data to increase energy efficiency</h2>



<p>In addition to the above, Mitra and Raghunath are working on improving predictive maintenance. Here, the data is used to analyze the central heating performance. Advanced analysis of the amount of heat that enters and leaves the heating system makes it possible to detect leaks or deviations.</p>



<p>– We need to help customers understand the value of collecting correct data from their building portfolio and what type of data is valuable. That is when it becomes a win-win-win from an environmental, customer, and cost perspective, Mitra concludes.</p>

The minds behind the algorithms

Max Karlsson

Check out Check Point

Want to get control over your defrosting procedures?

<p>Regular defrosting is essential for some counters and cabinets to ensure optimal function. If there's too much ice in your fridge and freezer, it can block the inflow of cold air. This either leads to the unit working harder than necessary or the temperature becoming too high. Either way, it's bad news.</p>



<h2><strong>Chill a little</strong></h2>





<p>So you probably think that you defrost too infrequently? Of course, that may be the case – there are huge differences between freezer cabinets and refrigerated rooms. But in reality, you're probably a little too eager! The most common mistake we see is that people defrost too often. And there's a simple explanation: While older counters and cabinets quickly began to complain if you didn't defrost them 2 or 3 times a day, many modern fridges and freezers are far more forgiving.</p>



<p>So if you've recently switched your refrigerant to a modern, CO<sub>2</sub>-based one, you'll also need to change your settings.</p>



<p>But won't it make a difference if I do it more often, you may be thinking? Yes, a little – because defrosting uses more power. If you do it more often than necessary, you're just wasting energy. And we don't want that.</p>



<h2><strong>Find the right defrosting routine</strong></h2>



<p>The right defrosting routine depends on what kind of equipment you have – so make sure you're familiar with it. In addition, many related factors affect how often you need to remove the ice from your fridge and freezer.</p>



<p>How often is the room used? What are the room temperature and humidity otherwise? For example, more ice will also form if you have a dairy storage room where people are walking in and out all the time and letting in a lot of moist and warm air. In that case, of course, you need to defrost more often.</p>



<h2><strong>Get control and an overview</strong></h2>



<p>But how can you know when the time has come to defrost? And how do you know if your actions are having an effect – did that defrost program really help? Today you can get excellent help from smart sensors, which can detect if the airflow is sufficient and measure the temperature at which the ice forms.</p>



<p>If you have <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/">IWMAC</a>, it's easy to track whether the electric heating elements are doing their job – or if you need to step in and defrost manually. Monitor whether the temperature increases when the "toaster" defrosts. If it doesn't, it won't cause the ice to melt.</p>



<p>Add <em><a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions/">Smart Functions</a></em> to your IWMAC, you can easily simulate whether or not you're defrosting too often. You'll also get all deviation indications sent to you directly, so you can optimize your energy consumption. It's far cheaper than walking around and checking the sensors manually – or getting others to do it.</p>



<h2 id="h-keep-an-eye-on-the-defrost-time"><strong>Keep an eye on the defrost time</strong></h2>





<p>If you're responsible for refrigerated counters and freezer cabinets, you're probably as tired of the "Frozen" problem as the parents of small kids are. In pure frustration, turning up the stop temperature is easy, believing it will make short work of ice. But if you want to "let it go," you should set the stop temperature close to the product temperature.</p>



<p>And if your freezer room is fully defrosted after 10 minutes, setting the defrost time to 30 minutes makes no sense. The goal is to melt the ice – not use the unit to heat the freezer room. It's a waste of energy.</p>