Maria Sotberg

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Looking to be proactive from anywhere – anytime?

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>For over two decades, we have been connecting people and systems together. Today, roughly 60,000 buildings in Scandinavia and northern Europe are connected to Edge, Energinet, IWMAC, or Web Port.</p>



<p>The solutions and systems you integrate into your buildings should work how you want them to, regardless of the supplier. That's why we are open to integrating both old and new, and not only our own solutions but also those of our "competitors." And that has brought results.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-web-port-edge-the-perfect-match">Web Port + Edge: the perfect match</h2>



<p>Over the past two years, we have successfully delivered <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge/edge-ai/">Edge's AI</a> through <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a> with great results. Our references show the effectiveness of connecting existing hardware and building control systems and how you can get more out of your original investment.</p>



<p>For instance, <a href="https://www.pitebo.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the public housing company PiteBo</a> has been working with AI control and digitalizing their property portfolio since 2021. They started integrating the SCADA system, Web Port, to get an overview of their properties, find errors and carry out improvements.</p>



<p>Once Web Port was in place, injecting Edge's AI steering completely software-wise was simple.</p>





<p>At <strong>Gdańsk Science and Technology Park</strong> (commissioned in 2011-2014), they sought to reduce heating costs by installing a heating management system. A requirement for the new system was that all its elements should be fully compatible with the existing control system at the substation. Therefore, they chose Edge.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-use-other-solutions">Use other solutions</h2>



<p>Although combining Edge + Web Port or IWMAC + Energinet is a natural choice, there is no problem integrating solutions from another supplier. By embracing different SCADA platforms and systems, we encourage people to choose the solution that best suits their needs.</p>



<p>Today, we have customers using our solutions on top of existing control systems like Citect, Arrigo, EcoStruxure, Aveva, and many more. We are also currently running projects with Siemens SCADA platform Desigo.</p>





<p>At <strong>Rosengård</strong>, Edge was directly implemented on the entire property stock of approximately 140,000 m². This is possible through software integrations with several partners, including our SCADA system Web Port, already installed in about 30 buildings.</p>





<p><strong>Ömangruppen</strong>, one of <a href="https://kiona.com/our-partners">our certified partners</a>, uses Web Port and Energinet to cut customers' operating costs. Because Web Port can "talk" many different languages, it has several ready-made drivers that can be connected to existing control systems. See how this improves Ömangruppens everyday life:</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-got-another-system-in-your-building">Got another system in your building?</h2>



<p>We're always on the lookout for new platforms that can be integrated. Do you have a specific system in mind? <a href="https://kiona.com/contact-us/contact-sales" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get in touch with our sales department</a>, and we'll help you figure out what's the best way to go.</p>

Get AI on top of your existing control system

Filip Lagerlöf

<p>Regarding digitization and implementation of technical property systems, <a href="https://tibrobyggen.se/">Tibrobyggen</a>, a public housing company in Tibro, has carried out a significant project where they connected their existing overall system (SCADA) with our <a href="https://kiona.com/products/edge">AI service, Edge</a>.</p>





<p>In Tibro, Jesper Sjöholm works as a technical and energy engineer responsible for the project to connect their different platforms. </p>



<p>Tibrobyggen has a strong vision of how they want their building technology system to work. At the start of the project, they were clear about the objectives of promoting integration and collaboration rather than replacement and purchase.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-made-you-decide-to-start-this-project">What made you decide to start this project?</h2>



<p>Tibrobyggen's digitalization journey began in January 2022, and they started from scratch. Step 1 was to install indoor sensors in all apartments to keep track of indoor temperatures to ensure the tenants' comfort. Since then, digitalization and investment in technical property systems have continued.&nbsp;</p>



<p>– We wanted to start at the right end, which is always our tenants, so we prioritized finding ways to ensure the comfort of our tenants. Once that was in place, we started looking at the overall system (SCADA) to get control and monitoring of the technical operations, and we chose Arrigo as the platform for this. This is where the first integration began, as we integrated the indoor sensors&nbsp;inside the apartments with Arrigo. Then, we could gather information about the apartments' indoor climate in one place, Jesper says.</p>



<p>– As a next step, we wanted to look at some sort of smarter control with AI to optimize the indoor climate for our tenants further and save energy use. In addition, we wanted it to integrate with our SCADA. Edge AI could easily be traded via HBV and was also completely open and integrable via API, so we contacted our <a href="https://wearesi.se/">integration partner SI</a>, and started the work.&nbsp;</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ecosystem-of-building-technology-systems-formed-around-tibrobyggen">An ecosystem of building technology systems formed around Tibrobyggen</h2>



<p>– These property management systems and platforms give us visibility and control while providing us with dynamic operational pictures, system alerts, in-depth analysis, and reports. By combining these technologies, we can create a cohesive, intelligent end-to-end solution beyond energy efficiency - providing our tenants the best possible living conditions while meeting our sustainability goals, Jesper explains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-injecting-ai-from-edge">Injecting AI from Edge</h2>



<p>– The integration of Edge AI to the Arrigo SCADA platform has changed a lot for us. Above all, smarter and more precise control results in a more even indoor climate by cutting highs and lows in the indoor temperature. This means better comfort for our tenants regardless of external factors such as changing weather.</p>



<p>– In this project, the primary goal has not been to save energy; it is instead a bonus, but our approach is, of course, to work for as little energy use as possible and at the same time balance it with providing the most essential thing of all –&nbsp; good comfort for our tenants. But in days of sharply increased district heating costs, Edge AI brings a great tool to manage these costs quickly and efficiently. Integrating the function entirely digitally, without on-site installations, is an appealing future-proof solution for me, he continues.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/09/inline_blog_image_700_x_400_x2.webp" alt="Tibrobyggen uses Arrigo and Edge in their building management" class="wp-image-44043"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Tibrobyggen</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-open-flexible-and-independent">Open, flexible, and independent</h2>



<p>– In terms of technology, our overall objective in this project has been to create an ecosystem of platforms and services that give us control of the technical installations in our properties, the possibility of remote monitoring and customization to achieve an efficient and digital way of working internally. We are a small company with 15 employees, so it is of utmost importance for us to be efficient in our processes and how we work. It is also crucial for us that it is future-proof, so if someone leaves and another comes in, the technical property systems must be set up to support the way of working regardless of who performs the job.&nbsp;</p>



<p>– Therefore, it was essential to use the systems we already have and integrate them rather than replacing and buying something new. We discussed this requirement with Kiona and our integration partner SI, which was received very positively.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bjarne-johansson-technical-manager-at-si-agrees-that-the-discussions-within-the-project-have-been-positive-from-the-start">Bjarne Johansson, Technical Manager at SI, agrees that the discussions within the project have been positive from the start.</h3>





<p>– We are very pleased to contribute to a successful project; this is a good example of integration between platforms to give the customer greater value. We at SI deliver services across a number of platforms, and in this case, Arrigo and Kiona's solutions are used to achieve results, says Bjarne Johansson.</p>



<p>– I was pleasantly surprised by the positive attitude of all parties involved towards integrating and connecting existing systems. There were no problems anywhere but rather a driving force in the project to fully embrace the power of openness. It feels like <a href="https://kiona.com/story/blog/kiona-product-platform-your-gateway-to-freedom-and-flexibility/">the importance of "openness in systems"</a> that is talked about in the industry is becoming increasingly real, says Jesper Sjöholm.</p>



<p>– For us at Kiona, open, flexible, and independent systems are one of the cornerstones of our entire product strategy. In addition to integrating with our own SCADA platform <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port/">Web Port</a>, we are more than happy to integrate with Arrigo, Citect, and other SCADA platforms out there. Currently, the final phase of integrations to even more platforms is underway. It feels really good that it is appreciated so much by partners, end customers, and industry colleagues, says Mattias Holm, who has been responsible for the project at Kiona.</p>





<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finally-jesper-do-you-notice-any-difference-in-how-it-is-to-implement-this-type-of-project-today-compared-to-5-10-years-ago">Finally, Jesper, do you notice any difference in how it is to implement this type of project today compared to 5-10 years ago?&nbsp;</h3>



<p>– There is a big difference today; a lot has happened in the last ten years! If we take AI as an example, it is talked about everywhere. It was something new and untested in the past, but today, it is an off-the-shelf product that is a standard in many municipalities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>– Another thing is the use of open systems. It is incredibly important today, compared to the past when you might have bought a packaged solution from a supplier. Today, there are entirely different requirements to integrate and pick puzzle pieces from other suppliers into a more customized solution that is shaped according to our needs and wishes. Open systems mean more opportunities and can be more complex because you need to keep track of more pieces of the puzzle, so finding a strategy adapted to our specific needs is essential, Jesper concludes.</p>

Integrated solutions strengthen Tibrobyggen's digital transformation

Silje Moan

<p>We find ourselves in a time when technology advances at an astonishing pace, and the field of building management is no exception. Fueled by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, intelligent systems are revolutionizing how we interact with and oversee our built environments. According to a <a href="https://www.researchandmarkets.com/report/construction-artificial-intelligence#src-pos-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report by Research and Markets</a>, the growth rate of the Global Market for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Construction is 30.3%, with an estimated value of USD 10,800 million by 2030. This expansion is a powerful testament to this transformative technology's swift adoption and profound impact. Smart logic in buildings offers a multitude of benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-does-smart-logic-do-for-buildings">What exactly does smart logic do for buildings?</h2>





<p>Smart logic makes building control systems more intelligent and effective and allows facilities to operate more efficiently, reduce energy consumption and costs, and improve overall system performance. The magic lies in its ability to combine experience-based rules with powerful AI algorithms to create a far more responsive and intuitive system than ever before.</p>



<p>Through task automation and minimizing human error, smart logic reduces downtime and boosts productivity. Additionally, it results in significant cost savings by reducing energy consumption.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictive-maintenance-and-real-time-data-analysis">Predictive maintenance and real-time data analysis</h2>



<p>Another exciting advantage for building managers is predictive maintenance. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and historical data, it becomes possible to predict equipment failures. Adding proactive maintenance scheduling to their toolkit prevents costly system failures and ensures smooth operations.</p>



<p>Real-time data analysis is a key benefit of AI on top. It can identify patterns and anomalies by analyzing data from sensors and control systems. Based on this analysis, it can use smart logic to automatically adjust system settings for optimized performance, contributing to energy optimization and efficiency.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-powered-energy-monitoring">AI-powered energy monitoring</h2>



<p>Another area where AI’s processing power and smart logic in building management systems shine is energy monitoring. Instead of making decisions based on gut feelings, operators can now rely on real-time data to make informed choices. AI-powered energy monitoring offers data-driven insights into a building's energy consumption patterns, enabling operators to identify inefficiencies and implement measures to reduce energy wastage.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-pitfalls-of-ai-in-buildings">Possible pitfalls of AI in buildings</h2>



<p>While the benefits of AI in building management are pretty compelling, it's important to keep in mind a few things. First off, the quality of data used by AI algorithms is key. Making sure your building data is accurate and top-notch is crucial for the smooth functioning of AI in building systems. After all, algorithms can only be as reliable and accurate as the data they work with.</p>



<p>Also, let's talk about the cost of implementing smart logic in buildings. Depending on how complex your building management system is, you might need to invest in some hardware upgrades or beef up your computing power for those AI-driven solutions to work as they should. And hey, don't forget that you might need to expand your operational staff capacity to handle all the new technology.</p>



<p>So, keep these things in mind, but don't worry too much. With the right data and a little investment, AI in building management can make a world of difference.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-smart-logic-for-bms-optimization">Embracing smart logic for BMS optimization</h2>



<p>Integrating smart logic, or AI, into your building systems brings a new wave of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and intuitive operation. As we rush into the future, the question isn't <em>if, </em>but <em>when </em>and <em>how </em>you will embrace smart logic in your building management systems.</p>



<p>Imagine a world where buildings are not just structures but smart entities optimizing energy usage for a sustainable future. As Viktor Vitell, CMO at Kiona, put it, 'The road towards a sustainable future goes through the smart city.' </p>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://kiona.com/white-paper-energy-optimization-and-ai-in-the-property-industry">Intrigued? Learn more about how AI revolutionizes property management in our latest white paper.</a></li>
</ul>



<p>Our team is here to help answer any questions you might have, so don't hesitate to reach out! Let's discuss how Edge AI can provide your business with a more efficient and cost-effective Intelligent Building Management System.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Together, let's create a brighter future with smarter buildings.</p>

The future of building management: Embracing AI and smart logic 

Theme overview

<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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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/07/bacnet-1.png" alt="BACnet" class="wp-image-42062"/></figure>
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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>
</div>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/07/haystack-1.png" alt="Project Haystack" class="wp-image-42101"/></figure>
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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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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/07/brick-schema-1.png" alt="Brick Schema" class="wp-image-42090"/></figure>
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<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:66.66%">
<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>
</div>
</div>



<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

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>



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<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 

Talk to one of our experts

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

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

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 class="wp-block-heading" 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 class="wp-block-heading" 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 class="wp-block-heading" 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 class="wp-block-heading" 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 class="wp-block-heading" 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 class="wp-block-heading" 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

<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>



<div style="height:40px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



<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

Viktor Vitell

<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!

Ståle Eriksen

See our solutions

Explore our products and solutions for building management

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

<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?

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<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 

Martin Eksberg

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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

Åsmund Svinndal

See our building management solutions

Ready to utilize some ready-to-connect tech?

<p>Proptech is something everyone is talking about. Often in the context of newer, bigger, and better technologies. The emergence of new companies pioneering the latest new and bold technology. The way you collect and use big data is becoming increasingly important. </p>





<h2 id="h-a-new-world-of-confusion">A new world of confusion?</h2>



<p>As new solutions emerge, skepticism and confusion grow alongside them. The technology is somewhat new, but the problem remains the same – <em>how </em>will this make building operations easier? For owners, operators, and managers, it all revolves around how technologies will work together to make everyday life easier – and our footprints smaller.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The answer to what value Proptech provides is then maybe not just the technology itself, but the value created when we come together. For us here at Kiona, Proptech isn't just a buzzword or the latest thing being developed in the tech world – it's the solutions that make it possible for new technologies to communicate with each other. It's the collection of data and several billion stored data points that can be shared further.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>It's the ecosystem of the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-an-ecosystem-undergoing-change">An ecosystem undergoing change</h2>



<p>Sharing the ecosystem allows us to further develop the technology and use it in a better way. We must fulfill our green ambition with sustainable solutions. Using new technology to make new and existing buildings energy efficient will make it easier to meet global climate goals, and much of the work is already underway.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Sensor technology is here to stay. Machine learning and AI are the beginning of data-driven, intelligent buildings that can control themselves and continuously learn new patterns, and AI technology is only getting smarter and smarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>In five years, self-learning will be a part of everyday life for everyone managing buildings. Maybe we'll see virtual sensors that can operate buildings with the help of machine learning and historical data from the same type of building when an existing building lacks the necessary technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the future, the limit is not <em>what </em>we can develop but <em>how much </em>we can create using the data we already have.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-technologies-of-the-future-are-created-by-collecting-and-sharing-data">Technologies of the future are created by collecting and sharing data</h2>



<p>Our core expertise today lies in integrating different systems – regardless of the brand. Our strength is staying ahead on everything necessary for data collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>We will continue to push the industry to share valuable data with everyone. The industry standard, Kiona Ready, is proof of this – or rather: just the beginning. But it's not enough to blindly share – the data must be able to actually work together to create something really useful.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>No one player can solve everything, and a well-functioning ecosystem will be crucial to the success of the digitization of the industry. It's about many players getting good at their niche or the experts crunching different data and passing it on.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Proptech doesn't just provide value for its creators but for the entire value chain. Only then can we talk about a revolution.</p>

Why everyone is talking about Proptech

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Product updates

<p>The phase-out and shutdown are taking place across Europe at roughly the same time. A substantial amount of mission-critical equipment is currently operative on this network, such as personal safety alarms, access control systems, elevators, IoT products, etc. <strong>All equipment currently on this network must be replaced before the shutdown of this network to continue working properly. </strong></p>



<p>Devices that collect data from buildings are also affected. Your equipment from Kiona, such as Edge Hub, Gateway, and Climate logger, currently supports 2G and 3G and will need to be replaced before this technology sunsets on 31/12/2025. </p>



<p><strong>Update (24/08/2023): </strong> We now have a new 4G/LTE-enabled Hub and Gateway, so customers who are planning their transition for the 2G sunset will now have increased coverage and faster speeds. This product is expected to be available by Q2 2023. With these solutions, our customers can rest easy knowing they won't miss any important communications that may come through on their 2G networks.</p>