The Stockholm School Properties Company (SISAB) has developed and tested an innovative approach to make their buildings’ electricity use more efficient using high-resolution real-time data and AI-driven analysis. This advanced solution is making it easier to detect anomalies early and optimize operations, leading to significant reductions in both energy costs and climate impact.
Real-time electricity monitoring to prevent wasteful use
With the rising costs of electricity and limitations in grid capacity, achieving energy efficiency in buildings has become more relevant than ever. One company tackling this challenge head-on is SISAB, the Stockholm School Properties Company, which has introduced an innovative solution to optimize the electricity use across its schools.
Originally focusing on optimizing heating use, SISAB expanded its efforts to include electricity consumption, a move that anticipates future cost increases. Within eight months, the company designed and implemented a real-time monitoring system that tracks the electricity consumption in the building. This enables the fast identification and correction of inefficiencies, leading to significant reductions in both energy costs and carbon footprint.
In practice, this method is already proving to be successful in identifying previously undetected anomalies. For example, one building’s real-time monitoring system revealed an unexpected pattern of electricity usage at night, which was traced to a ventilation unit running after hours. This way, it was possible to act swiftly to correct the irregularity and prevent wasteful electricity use.
Data-driven analysis and AI Integration
The system implemented by SISAB includes electricity meters and a mobile-connected HAN port dongle to collect high-resolution data. This data is then integrated into the company’s AI platform, SOLIDA, where it’s processed and analysed in real time. This combination of real-time data and AI enables:
• Faster detection of energy anomalies.
• Streamlined and data-informed decision-making.
• Elimination of costly and time-consuming manual power measurements.
• Optimized control of electricity output.
As of March 2025, around 400 meters have been connected, with another 250 installations currently underway.
Towards more energy-smart schools
SISAB’s system is a great example of how combining real-time monitoring with AI analysis can deliver fast results when it comes to improving a building’s energy use. It is already making a difference and shows potential for scaling up across more school buildings. It also opens the door for further possibilities, such as the integration with other systems and technologies, creating holistic solutions for more energy-smart school buildings.
For instance, one of the next steps SISAB is exploring includes the reduction of electricity consumption in ventilation systems, particularly in school kitchens, which are known for their high energy demand.
Other key potential areas for expansion include:
• AI-driven automation: Through machine learning, systems can independently adjust electricity use based on patterns and forecasts.
• Indoor climate optimization: By integrating with other systems like ventilation, heating, lighting, and air quality monitoring, it could contribute to enhancing both energy efficiency and comfort.
• Proactive maintenance: Identifying equipment that is using excessive energy to help prevent breakdowns and future costly repairs.
• Flexible load and energy storage: It can also lead to a better adaptation of consumption based on supply and demand in the electricity market.
Want to know more? Visit SISAB’s website to learn about their mission to build future-ready schools: https://sisab.se/sv/in-english/
