The push for intelligent buildings has gained momentum, and there is a growing need for clear guidelines that delineate the true potential of modern technology in the construction realm. "Smart by Powerhouse" emerges as a concrete response to this need.
Developed by nordic industry leaders like Entra, Snøhetta, and the environmental foundation ZERO, this initiative provides a comprehensive framework for smart technology's role in buildings. Its focus is clear:
Enhancing user comfort and functionality.
Minimizing environmental impact.
Reducing long-term operational costs.
Ensuring adaptability to evolving demands.
Leading this change in the practical arena is Abra, embodying the principles of a
"Nivå 4 - Smart Kognitivt" house. In their own words, a building living up to this standard can be described as following:
"A building at this level will exploit large volumes of historical data and machine learning to improve its prediction models and systems, without negatively impacting the user experience.
This will improve the building’s energy performance, reduce environmental impact and further improve indoor climate; However, this impact will probably be marginal in certain areas.
Artificial intelligence will enable the building to predict incidents and events that the building’s owner, tenants and users will not necessarily be able to foresee themselves.
This feature can increase the experience of quality, or reduce risk, e.g. operational deviations that can be avoided through proactive measures.
A Smart cognitive building will ensure high social value throughout the entire lifecycle, as it is able to develop and adapt itself to future needs.
While some buildings will meet certain functional requirements at this level in just a few years, significant development work remains to achieve this level for all requirements.
The first building that fully achieves this level will be an international sensation."
Here's how Abra translates this standard into tangible solutions:
- Data Analysis: AbraOS efficiently collects and interprets data, enabling homeowners to understand and optimize energy consumption patterns and adapt to user behaviors over time.
- Continuous Learning: Abra integrates advanced machine learning, ensuring its system constantly refines its predictions. This results in energy savings and a consistently comfortable living environment.
- Predictive AI: Instead of just reacting, Abra anticipates, suggesting changes in energy consumption or maintenance tasks based on predicted future needs.
- User-Centered Design: AbraOS adjusts to the inhabitants' changing preferences, ensuring the home environment remains aligned with their needs.
- Sustainability: Consistent with the principles of Smart by Powerhouse, Abra champions efficient energy usage, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
- Future-Proofing: Designed to be adaptable, Abra ensures homes remain technologically relevant, adjusting to new advances and societal expectations.
In essence, while Smart by Powerhouse provides the conceptual framework for the next generation of smart buildings, Abra offers practical, real-world solutions that embody these principles.
