Building data analysis system for energy efficiency and operation

Buildings continuously generate data - from sensors, controls and technical systems. For a long time, this information remained unused or was only analysed selectively.

Digital platforms are fundamentally changing this approach. This is precisely where Aedifion comes in, using existing data streams to systematically analyse and optimise the operation of buildings. At the heart of this is not the installation of additional hardware, but the utilisation of existing infrastructure. Data from building automation and system technology is read out, collated in a cloud and processed there using algorithms. The aim is to get more efficiency out of existing systems.

Aedifion platform analyses data from buildings and systems

The basis for this is the continuous collection of data points. Depending on the size of the building, several thousand to over a hundred thousand individual measured values are generated. These are recorded at high frequency and labelled with metadata. Typical sources are

• Room ventilation systems
• Heat pumps and heating systems
• Sensors for temperature and operating states
• Actuators within the building automation

Digital twins enable precise analyses

The system uses the collected data to create digital images of the systems. These so-called digital twins depict the real behaviour of the technical systems in the building. They make it possible to recognise deviations from optimum operation. The analysis is automated. Algorithms continuously check whether systems are running in the intended mode or whether there are any anomalies. If a problem is identified, the system provides specific recommendations for action. This could mean that a sensor is faulty or that operating times do not match the actual utilisation of a building. Instead of abstract key figures, operators receive clear information on what measures are necessary.

Direct control of the building from the cloud

In addition to pure analysis, the platform also enables intervention in operations. Control takes place directly from the cloud and is based on various influencing factors. These include, among others:

• weather-dependent control of systems
• Operating times based on utilisation
• Integration of grid signals in energy management
• Adaptation to load peaks and demand time windows

Regulation as a driver for digital building optimisation

Regulatory developments are a key factor in the increasing spread of such systems. In Germany, for example, the Building Energy Act applies to larger systems with a combined output of 290 kilowatts or more. At European level, the EPBD sets comparable framework conditions. These requirements increase the pressure on operators to run their buildings more efficiently and make energy consumption transparent. Systems such as Aedifion's provide the necessary data basis for this and support compliance with the requirements. It is worth noting that corresponding solutions are already certified and can therefore serve as proof of regulatory requirements. For operators, this creates a direct link between technical optimisation and legal compliance.

Economic significance and market environment

The digitalisation of buildings is increasingly developing from an optional topic into an operational necessity. Rising energy costs and stricter legal requirements mean that efficiency potential must be systematically tapped. This is creating a growing market for providers such as Aedifion. At the same time, operators benefit from improved transparency and predictable savings. The investment in digital analysis and control systems can therefore be justified not only technically, but also economically. It is striking that many optimisation potentials already exist in existing systems. It is less about new construction or complete modernisation and more about the intelligent use of existing systems. This is precisely where data-based optimisation comes in, shifting the focus from hardware to software and analysis.