Sara Hampf

Submit it today

Have an idea to improve your work?

Partner

Check out release notes for products included in Kiona's platform. Be the first to know when we publish updates to our software or create new features. Get a summary of new product releases and see the improvements made to existing products.

Platform updates

Many partners and customers throughout Europe work with our solutions daily. As a user of any system or solution, it is common to miss that one feature that would improve the service. Given that, we thought there must be plenty of good ideas for improving <a href="https://kiona.com/kiona-platform/">our platform</a> within our customer group. In addition to our own developed ideas for improvement, we were convinced that ideas from our users would also strengthen our solutions.&nbsp;





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-idea-portal-goes-live-nbsp">The Idea Portal goes live&nbsp;</h2>



With that in mind, "<a href="http://kiona.ideas.aha.io/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Idea Portal</a>" was introduced in 2023. We created the portal to be easy to use and open for all users with a Kiona ID. Once signed in, you can submit new ideas for a selected product. Our workflow makes it easy to follow the status of your idea. And, you can comment or vote on ideas – whether it is your own or someone else's. No matter how big or small the idea, we promise that it will be treated with respect and that all ideas will be valued based on facts and data according to our well-defined product development process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-workflow-behind-every-submitted-idea-nbsp-nbsp">The workflow behind every submitted idea&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



It is crucial to have an efficient workflow to make this function work. We created a thorough workflow to make it easier for us to work with and for our users to follow their ideas through the different stages of the workflow.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2025/02/IDEASINT-N-37-Idea-process-simplified.png" alt="Idea Portal process" class="wp-image-60954"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kiona Idea Portal process</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-what-happens-when-an-idea-is-added-to-our-portal-nbsp">This is what happens when an idea is added to our portal&nbsp;</h2>



We go through our idea portal weekly. When reviewing ideas, we give them an initial score and ensure they contain enough information to understand and grasp what they are about. Our goal is to leave the initial stage Needs review as soon as possible, and our target is within two weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Every week, we choose the three top ideas with the status of Future consideration per segment; Building management, Energy management, and Retail and refrigeration—and decide to investigate them further.&nbsp;&nbsp;



These ideas get the status Gathering insights where our product managers investigate them in more detail and determine if they should be developed.&nbsp;&nbsp;



If the idea can be achieved with existing functionality, it is set to Already exists. We have a set strategy for our platform, and if an idea is not a good fit for our strategy, it will be set to Will not implement. 



All ideas that could be developed get the status Likely to implement. Once every month, our roadmap team reviews this list and selects the highest-ranked ideas to be developed. After this stage, we decide to if they should be placed on our roadmap and set it to Planning to implement, but no work has begun yet.



When an idea has passed the above stages, it will be set to Under development, and last but not least, it will be set to Released and will soon be available on the platform. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2025/03/Idea-portal-image-new-e1742887822724.png" alt="" class="wp-image-61414"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Overview of the Idea Portal</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-of-concept-nbsp-nbsp">Proof of concept&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



Since the launch of our idea portal in 2023, we have received more than 120 ideas for improvement from our partners and customers. Eight ideas were sent to production, and over 300 idea votes were added.&nbsp;&nbsp;



So, there is no reason to wait if you have an idea to improve your work and our products – keep the great ideas coming.&nbsp;

Working together for better solutions – we bring our partners' ideas to life with our Idea Portal 

Maria Sotberg

Learn more about Energinet

Want to hear more about our Energy Management System?

We relish telling stories from our partners. True experiences shared by experts about how they use Kiona products to boost their business and that of their customers. Check out stories from our partner network.

"To meet the climate goals, we need to get the existing building stock to deliver the best indoor climate by using as little energy as possible. We need to automate technical systems to a much greater extent, and operating personnel must have good tools to help them monitor that everything is working," says Kjell Petter Småge, CEO of <a href="https://www.evotek.no/">the consulting firm EvoTek</a>.



EvoTek provides technical consulting services on the client side and uses <a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Energinet</a> as an analysis tool. Energinet's most important function is giving operating personnel a quick and easy overview of whether everything is working. EvoTek has also been involved in developing the software over the past 20 years.





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-quality-is-high-on-the-agenda">Data quality is high on the agenda</h2>



Optimization and sustainability reporting are high on the agendas of customers and property owners, and to succeed, you need the right data.



Magnus Østbye, Senior Advisor at EvoTek, knows all about data quality assurance. With 10 years of experience, he knows what it takes to get a successful project. He explains that EvoTek has a customer portfolio of approx. 15 million square meters, and through Energinet, customers monitor around 23,000 active metering points. The consulting customers include office buildings, schools, industry, shops, and shopping centers – where they are by far the largest.



"We are a unique company that specializes in advising clients on technical and environmental issues throughout the life cycle of the building. Everything from identifying the best solutions in the sketch/pre-project phase, following up through the construction phase and trial operation, and assisting the operating personnel throughout the building's operating phase. We need to have the facts on the table. To do that, we completely depend on a high level of expertise and a good system like Energinet," says Østbye.





"There is still a lot of manual handling of data and PDFs out there. We're working on collecting good data so that you can process it further, make calculations, and apply factors that make it usable. So having quality data flowing in has everything to do with success," he continues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reality-check-of-the-digital-and-physical">The reality check of the digital and physical</h2>



Østbye explains that he solves 80-90% of the work himself with the help of one report. This shows the breadth and flexibility of the program. With a platform where everything is gathered, it's only where you need to work – and that's where you'll find all the information you need quickly and efficiently.



But you still have to physically go and review the building.



"The fact that everyone at Evotek is out in the field with the customer and sees the practical side of the building is at least as important as the data you see online. You need to know some technical facts about cabinets and panels and whether what you want to measure is actually consumption worth measuring. Then we systemize the data to get something useful out of it," he says.



Local operations staff receive daily and weekly reports with consumption figures to check that forecasts are being followed, look for deviations, and follow up on alarms.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2024/10/Energinet-water-vol-spectral-analyses-1-1024x563.png" alt="Energinet, EMS system" class="wp-image-57176"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image: The navigation tree in Energinet gives you a quick overview of the status of your buildings and portfolio.</figcaption></figure>



"In our experience, there is a lot of focus on colors and layout in the market, which is important to get an attractive system with good design. But it's of little value if the data in the system isn't of good enough quality, and this is where Energinet stands out as a proven and solid system.



"The biggest advantage lies in the transparency with which the system is structured. Users must be able to find information, logical expressions and recognize the data path from top to bottom. The system must be so user-friendly that if you want to learn, you should be able to become great at it. Of course, as consultants, we can help you there too."



General Manager, Kjell Petter Småge, agrees;



"We have highly qualified employees who focus on both HVAC technical systems and the technical-builder role. We help structure the system so that the operator gets the detailed information needed to do his job well. At the same time, those who want overall trends and the red and black numbers will also find what they are looking for," he concludes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-advice-and-technical-support-when-the-customer-gets-good-results-we-really-shine">Practical advice and technical support - "When the customer gets good results, we really shine."</h2>



Senior Advisor Magnus Østbye further explains that it's a job well done when customers get better results.&nbsp;





He explains that many people may just choose a system based on price or that it was something they stumbled upon in a search without mapping their success factors. What is it that you need to improve? And are you getting the numbers you actually need?&nbsp;



"We use our customers' systems, but if we're going to be a reseller and support a system, it has to be the best. Many of our customers have ongoing framework agreements, and there is a reason why they stay. It's because the quality of the delivery has been good and because Kiona follows the market over time," says Østbye.&nbsp;



"Together with Kiona, we're constantly taking the temperature of what we think is coming, what we need to work on, and what is happening in the market. We work together to further develop software and determine how we meet new requirements and wishes. We want to be forward-thinking and continue to challenge ourselves."&nbsp;



"The combination of leading system and leading knowledge is clearly something that benefits our customers," he concludes.

From data to action – EvoTek uses Energinet to meet reporting requirements

Become a partner!

Want to join the team?

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soe-konsult-certified-partners-can-work-independently-with-few-lock-in-effects">SÖE Konsult: – Certified Partners can work independently with few lock-in effects.</h2>



<a href="https://soekonsult.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SÖE Konsult</a> has installed <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Web Port</a> for customers all over Sweden since 2019. They help building owners and industries with digital infrastructure and ensure that there is a common thread between sensor and data platform.



As impartial consultants, they only recommend what is most beneficial to the customer, be it one of our solutions or something completely different.





Johan Geiborg, who co-founded SÖE five years ago, can see a development in the industry. While one previously was locked in regarding building automation solutions, people now want greater flexibility and the ability to choose which providers and services to use.



"Kiona is a player that is centralized and open with its systems, enabling conversion to an industry standard," he concludes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-norddisk-with-close-cooperation-we-have-managed-to-lift-ourselves-up-compared-to-our-competitors">NordDisk: – With close cooperation, we have managed to lift ourselves up compared to our competitors.</h2>



<a href="http://www.norddisk.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NordDisk</a> has known about <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">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.



"We see it as one of our strengths that we have a short service path between suppliers, customers, and partners. 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.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bravida-finland-oy-lahti-we-found-what-we-needed-with-an-easy-to-use-platform-and-open-technology">Bravida Finland Oy Lahti: – We found what we needed with an easy-to-use platform and open technology.</h2>



Bravida is a leading automation company specializing in electrical building technology, centralized building automation, and maintenance. Their <a href="https://www.bravida.fi/yhteystiedot/suomi/lahti/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Finland department in Lahti</a>  became a partner in 2022 and is certified in Web Port.



"For years, I was on the hunt for a building monitoring software that would allow me to manage automation brands from various manufacturers. I found what I needed in Web Port: its pricing is transparent, the platform is easy to use, and the technology is open," says Technical director Jari Niemelä.



Their services were brand-dependent in the past, but today, they can offer the same services for multiple device configurations.





He says the platform is robust and highly functional, making managing customers' property portfolios easier. And when they don't constantly have to switch monitoring views between different brands, their work efficiency also improves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-showcase-your-expertise">Showcase your expertise</h2>



Anyone interested in becoming a <a href="https://kiona.com/solutions/for-partners" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiona Certified Partner</a> receives training to set up our systems safely and efficiently. And, of course, we always recommend that end customers use one of our Certified Partners.

3 partners share – about their certification and chosen integration solution

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

It can be challenging to create compatible software that provides advice so that the system owner can make strategic business decisions. That's where <a href="https://soekonsult.se/">SÖE Konsult</a> comes in, guiding building owners to automation solutions that help them achieve financial and climate goals.





"We help property owners and industries set requirements for digital infrastructure, where the OT solutions (Operational technology) are connected to the company's IT system. We ensure a common thread between sensor and data platform," says Johan Geiborg, founder of SÖE Konsult.



He thinks that many customers have difficulty getting a solution presented in an informative way by contractors today. They try to act as an independent party that evaluates different software and applications without any preferences regarding the systems they recommend.





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-securing-the-best-digital-infrastructure-for-customers">Securing the best digital infrastructure for customers</h2>



Part of the job is to closely dialog with the building owner throughout the process, from the request about what the system should do to setting requirements in procurement and implementation, and make sure that the thoughts they had beforehand are also carried out and match the end result.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Along the way, you test things and make sure it's the best solution. You can set up APIs for the interfaces that create a common thread in the chain of reliable data. Those who work at SÖE Konsult have a background in IT as software developers and programmers or have worked with development in real estate and industrial automation.



"We verify that it is the best solution and do not set requirements by simply believing something," says Johan Geiborg, who explains that the main reason customers hire them is that they create control throughout the process and verify the data that the systems generate.



The customers include several major real estate companies such as Vasakronan, Örebrobostäder (ÖBO), Helsingborgshem, Rikshem, Uppsalahem, and Higab. Among other things, SÖE is involved in <a href="https://en.elfack.com/2020/06/tamarinden-swedens-smartest-district/">ÖBO's exciting energy-sharing project in Örebro's Tamarinden district</a>. They have set requirements for designing an information platform to visualize the area's energy flow system independently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digitalization-needs-to-be-a-long-term-plan">Digitalization needs to be a long-term plan</h2>



There are many good digital initiatives and pilots, but fewer succeed in maintaining their ambitions over time. Projects often depend on individuals, and initiatives fall apart if the person leaves.



"The key to a successful digital journey is for the board and management team to adopt a company-wide plan, regardless of who is employed in the company. It should include the entire company so that everyone understands why they are digitalizing, and the unique project decisions made should be in line with the company's goals and ambitions."



Among the companies that invest wholeheartedly, several of them have come a long way on their digital journey, and the "hot" thing now, according to Johan, is to take advantage of all the data that comes from the systems and create even more systems benefits with the help of AI.



By transferring data from the building into an IT environment, you want to utilize AI's analytical ability to make decisions using machine learning and self-learning algorithms. In this way, the building system or machine in question is optimized using its own data and that of the outside world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scalable-and-flexible-building-automation-solutions-are-important">Scalable and flexible building automation solutions are important</h2>



Before,&nbsp;many suppliers and contractors wanted to create optimization functions and systems locally.&nbsp;Now, it is about doing the "right" optimization locally to create scalability in the systems. They also want more flexibility in choosing which AI providers or services to use.



"AI services are becoming so common that customers want to be able to replace one AI provider with another based on pricing models, what is most profitable, and what control works best for them. Therefore, it is very important for companies that the digital infrastructure is scalable."



As an impartial consultant, SÖE collaborates with us, which means that they evaluate, analyze, and recommend our solutions, including <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port">Web Port</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://kiona.com/products/energinet">Energinet</a>,&nbsp;when it fits and makes the most sense for the customer.





SÖE has been working with Web Port for a long time and appreciates the possibility of interfaces and communication possibilities with other systems to create efficient and functional digital infrastructures for customers. Energinet is a newer application, and the hope is that it will show the energy monitoring clearly and visualize it in the same concrete way as Web Port does.

SÖE Konsult only recommends what provides the most benefit

Max Karlsson

Learn more

Interested in how our partner program works? Check out our solutions for Partners!

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

<a href="https://www.nrkyl.se/">NR Kyl AB</a>, a certified Kiona Partner, operates in Gothenburg and was founded in 2012. They aim to promote sound cooling technology with climate-wise refrigerants in grocery stores, restaurants, and buildings.



"We have service teams that carry out repairs and service on existing facilities and installers that build new facilities and rebuild when stores need to update and invest in more modern refrigeration systems," says Emil Sundgren, Service Manager at NR Kyl AB.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoiding-downtime-and-food-waste">Avoiding downtime and food waste</h2>



Monitoring and measuring refrigeration systems is crucial to avoid refrigeration downtime and food waste. 



"Alarms can go either to an alarm center or directly to us," says Emil. "We will then call the grocery store and give a recommendation on what they need to do.





When an alarm comes in from the alarm center, he assesses what needs to be done, writes service orders, and outsources the job to the refrigeration technician who is most suitable for the job. He is also responsible for planning the preventive maintenance of the stores' refrigeration systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-surveillance">Digital surveillance</h2>



<a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac">The IWMAC system</a> is used to monitor connected grocery stores around the clock. Refrigeration technicians can easily prevent and adjust faults remotely by installing sensors and setting parameters for temperature, pressure, effect, and opening ratio.



"This allows us to provide a very high level of service to our customers and help them reduce food waste, unnecessary disruptions, and lower energy consumption," says Emil.





"Today, energy efficiency and optimization are essential for the customer to stay on top of. Each measurement provides information on how the counter, room, or fridge works; you don't have to be on-site to see it. This results in lower on-call costs because you can immediately see if action is needed or if it can wait. It also provides information on how to optimize consumption, saving both time and money."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-freezing-and-cooling-to-heating">From freezing and cooling to heating</h2>





Another important part of IWMAC is <a href="https://kiona.com/products/iwmac/smart-functions">forecast control and heat recovery.</a> Through adjustments, grocery stores can harness the excess energy from refrigerated counters and convert it into heat.



"Most cooling systems are equipped with heat recovery. This means the energy can heat the store and hot water instead of being cooled on the roof. This reduces the need to buy electricity from the grid and provides a better operating economy." Emil says that as many as 75-80% of customers use the surplus energy from their cooling systems.



IWMAC also has functions for self-monitoring and HACCP food quality control.



"The establishment's owner is responsible for ensuring that the food the consumer purchases is safe. This means that you have to keep track of whether there are deviations from what is normal. With the help of digital monitoring, we can see the history and assess whether something is wrong," says Emil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-customer-focus">Customer focus</h2>



Emil believes that by knowing the customers' business and understanding their challenges, NR Kyl can offer tailored solutions and reliable service.



Older refrigeration systems can mean that it is more difficult to solve the problem and that refrigeration technicians must go out several times. The customer needs to understand why.



"It's a bit like an old car that can't be driven – one time, it's a faulty spark plug, and the next time, it could be a broken fan belt. Having digital monitoring means we can be proactive and work with preventive maintenance so that the customer gets safer and smoother operations."



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://kiona.com/app/uploads/2023/12/NR_Kyl_blog_700x400_x2.webp" alt="NR Kyl works with digital monitoring at a grocery store" class="wp-image-48412"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">NR Kyl works with digital monitoring at a grocery store. (Photo: www.nrkyl.se)</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dare-to-charge-for-knowledge">Dare to charge for knowledge</h2>



It used to take a long time to fix faults in a refrigerated counter. Today, however, the refrigeration industry has other challenges, mainly the ability to recruit and retain competent staff.



"For the general public, the refrigeration sector is not as well-known as other professions such as electricians, plumbers, and painters. This creates a challenge in attracting talent and ensuring a stable workforce."



"Another challenge is the lack of training opportunities in refrigeration technology. The increasing demand for qualified personnel has led to competition for skills and increasing wage demands. That means we must have the courage to charge for the time spent."





He points out that the choice of refrigeration supplier is important. 



"You must have the courage to make demands and choose someone with high competence and a good reputation within the trade community. Although many customers look at the price, the cheapest is rarely the best in the long run," he says.



Advising, monitoring, and recommending refrigeration systems has improved efficiency and reduced food waste for many customers. This has been made possible by NR Kyl's early embrace of new technology and its integration with advanced digital monitoring.

Better efficiency and less food waste with digital monitoring of refrigerated counters

Joacim Hindersson

Try our online demo

Want to test Web Port for yourself?

<a href="https://www.hameenkiinteistoautomaatio.fi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hämeen kiinteistöautomaatio</a> (part of Bravida) is the leading automation company in the Lahti region, specializing in electrical building technology, centralized building automation, and maintenance. The company manages and optimizes all its customers' properties with one brand-independent cloud platform – <a href="https://kiona.com/products/web-port" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our Web Port system</a>.





"For years, I was on the hunt for a building monitoring software that would allow me to manage automation brands from various manufacturers. I found what I needed in Web Port: its pricing is transparent, the platform is easy to use, and the technology is open," says Technical Director and Founder Jari Niemelä.



Hämeen kiinteistöautomaatio (HKA) has been a <a href="https://kiona.com/solutions/become-a-partner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Certified Kiona Partner</a> since 2022.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-broader-customer-base-than-ever-before">A broader customer base than ever before</h2>



HKA serves its clients throughout the entire life cycle of a building, from new construction to renovation and modernization. The company provides complete turnkey solutions for buildings. For building automation, they offer several different contract levels.



"We reduce our customers' real estate costs and suggest improvements. At the lightest level, we move the customer's property to the cloud, and the customer receives backups and the necessary access rights. We also offer services where our professionals manage the client's property."



"In this case, we agree on a client-specific basis, for example, how many hours per month the service is needed, what is reported to the client, and so on," Niemelä continues.



In the past, HKA's services have been brand-dependent, but today, they can offer the same services for multiple device configurations.



"Each supplier has its own type of monitoring software. We previously focused on systems from three different suppliers. Now that we have an open platform like Web Port, we can also take on brands we haven't supported before. We currently have monitoring software from six different vendors." Niemelä explains.





He says the platform is robust and highly functional, making managing customers' property portfolios easier. And when they don't constantly have to switch monitoring views between different brands, their work efficiency also improves.



"We can add up to 100 properties to the platform. From Web Port, you can't see which or whose system is behind the monitoring; everything is done the same way. That makes our job a lot easier."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-iot-boom-in-building-automation">The IoT boom in building automation</h2>



Future buildings will be highly equipped and complex, driving the increasing need for technical expertise within building automation. And the Internet of Things (IoT) is currently booming in this sector.



HKA has invested in the development of IoT solutions at the forefront. During COVID-19, they received support from Business Finland for a development project aimed at wireless metering in buildings.



"Now, we can wirelessly measure various parameters in our customers' properties, including air quality, pressure differentials, carbon dioxide levels, and particulate matter concentrations. We install sensors in the buildings, and the data is transmitted to <a href="https://www.digita.fi/en/services/iot/lorawan-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Digita's LoRa network</a> and from there to our systems," says Niemelä.



The data is measured in real-time, and the cloud service allows the data to be used automatically to adjust the conditions in the buildings.



"I dare say that we are very high on the Finnish scale in terms of expertise in these matters," says Niemelä.





While many things can now be done wirelessly and remotely, HKA promises to remain easily accessible to its customers.&nbsp;



"Above all, we promise to be present locally, even if we are not in the same place. We take responsibility for what we do."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-solutions-to-customers-problems">Finding solutions to customers' problems</h2>



Customers contact HKA mainly when a fault has been detected in their building or its automation system, when there is a problem with the indoor air, or when the customer wants to save energy. Rarely, however, is the contact proactive.



"Usually, the customer calls us to report a particular issue. Then, we discuss, assess the situation, and collectively seek solutions. We resolve the issues and see how things start functioning. It's important that our services generate value for our customers."



According to Niemelä, the biggest challenge for the building automation sector in Finland has long been cheap energy.



"For example, electricity has been so cheap that it has been difficult to make people understand why they should save it. The electricity price boom made our job easier and helped customers understand that every euro saved improves their bottom line."





Niemelä and his team serve municipalities, cities, hospitals, and shopping centers. He is proud of his company's client base.



"We couldn't do this kind of thing if we didn't have extremely professional staff. The most important asset is the people who do it."

Equipped for efficiency: How HKA uses Web Port to optimize and improve their customers' buildings

Filip Lagerlöf

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>.





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



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.



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



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;



– 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.



– 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;





<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>



– 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.



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



– 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.



– 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.



<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>



– 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;



– 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.



<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>





– 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.



– 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.



– 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.





<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>



– 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;



– 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.

Integrated solutions strengthen Tibrobyggen's digital transformation

Solutions for refrigeration

Want to stay on top of alarms and faults?

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.





Therefore, they are well aware of what is happening in the market.



– 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.



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.



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.



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



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.



– 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.





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.



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.



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



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



– 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.



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.

– The key to success is players who collaborate

Talk to us

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

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

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.



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.





– By reviewing technical installations and investing more in older buildings, you can make big savings, says Reine Neumann, energy consultant at Ömangruppen in Växjö.



<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.



– 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, Neumann explains.





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-better-data-collection-and-analysis">Better data collection and analysis</h2>



Neumann 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;



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.





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



– 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.



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.



<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>



– 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.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-mapping-reduced-costs">Energy mapping = reduced costs</h2>



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;



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.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



– 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 Neumann.&nbsp;



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;



– 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.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turn-analysis-into-action">Turn analysis into action</h2>



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;



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
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.
<cite>Reine Neumann, Ömangruppen</cite></blockquote>



–&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, Neumann concludes.