In a recent blog post, Schneider Electric’s executive vice president, digital energy division Laurent Bataille described the company’s stance on several predictions about the smart buildings space that were made by research and consulting firm Verdantix. That firm published “10 Predictions For Smart Building Technology in 2021 and Beyond.”
Here’s how Bataille responded to some of what Verdantix had to say.
About Verdnatix’s prediction that digital twin simulations and edge computing will continue to garner interest among executives, Bataille said, “We agree … we collaborate with a variety of industry partners to help accelerate the bridge between building information modeling and real-world operational performance.”
Of edge computing, Bataille explained that Schneider Electric recognizes edge’s benefits in supporting smart buildings “and we’re partnering with EdgePresence and Accu-Tech to deploy edge points-of-presence to help businesses utilize the power of the edge to drive digital business forward.”
Verdantix also stated that in the near term, companies are planning investments in IoT-enabled space monitoring, to which Bataille stated, “Space management solutions can help integrate occupancy and traffic monitoring, alongside indoor air quality, and comfort monitoring. Through integration with our EcoStruxure Building Operation, data shared with the BMS will proactively optimize HVAC settings. Facility managers can ensure that occupants are following distancing guidelines and policies for use of common areas.”
He also said that Schneider Electric is “definitely seeing” the trend that COVID-19 is driving firms to reprioritize their facilities management strategies with talent retention and employee safety as new focal areas. “Our new breed of an enterprise mobile engagement app is empowering employees with a digitized workplace experience,” according to Bataille. “The app lets employees use their mobile device as a digital passport at the security entrance and navigate the office using real-time availability and occupancy level data for each space.”
