Hengelo Firm Secures EU Funding for Industrial Energy Monitoring
Hengelo, Wednesday, 21 August 2024.
Energy-IO, a Dutch company, receives European funding to develop an industrial ‘smart meter’ system. The INDUSTR_I4.0 project support aims to facilitate German market entry, showcasing cross-border innovation in energy efficiency.
The Genesis of the Innovation
Energy-IO, founded by Ton van Ewijk, has been at the forefront of developing a revolutionary energy monitoring system tailored for industrial use. Described as a ‘smart meter for companies,’ this system provides real-time insights into energy consumption, enabling industries to optimize their energy usage. The system’s ability to monitor and analyze energy consumption patterns offers companies a significant edge in energy management and cost reduction.
European Funding Through INDUSTR_I4.0
The INDUSTR_I4.0 project, an initiative focused on fostering innovation and collaboration between the Netherlands and Germany, recently granted funding to Energy-IO. This funding is part of the ‘Verkenning samenwerking Nederland-Duitsland’ program, which aims to explore collaborative opportunities across borders. The first project approval occurred at the end of June 2024, following the project’s official launch on 17 April 2024.
Collaboration for Market Expansion
With the newly acquired funding, Ton van Ewijk is set to collaborate with Markus Mebben from Emsland GmbH. Their joint effort will focus on tailoring the energy monitoring system for the German market. This partnership is expected to expedite market access in Germany, providing a platform for further innovations and enhancing the system’s applicability in different industrial settings. As Markus Mebben stated, ‘Together, we will seek out companies and knowledge institutions that can help us prepare our product for the German market.’
How the System Works
The energy monitoring system developed by Energy-IO functions by integrating advanced sensors and data analytics to provide a comprehensive overview of energy consumption within an industrial setting. The system collects data from various points within the facility, which is then analyzed to identify patterns and inefficiencies. This information is presented through intuitive dashboards, allowing facility managers to make informed decisions about energy use, maintenance, and operational adjustments.
Benefits of the Innovation
One of the key benefits of Energy-IO’s system is its ability to provide predictive analytics. By forecasting energy consumption trends, the system helps companies anticipate and mitigate potential inefficiencies before they become significant issues. This proactive approach to energy management not only reduces costs but also enhances overall operational efficiency. Additionally, the system’s real-time data transparency allows for immediate action, further optimizing energy use and reducing downtime.
Future Prospects and Next Steps
The INDUSTR_I4.0 project has outlined subsequent opportunities for funding, with the next cut-off date for innovative digitalization ideas set for 31 August 2024, followed by another on 31 December 2024. The program’s focus on feasibility studies and innovation projects aligns perfectly with Energy-IO’s mission to enhance industrial energy efficiency. As the results of the initial feasibility studies are currently being evaluated, the collaboration between Energy-IO and Emsland GmbH is poised to set a precedent for future cross-border innovations in the energy sector.