Modern buildings rely on connected systems for comfort, efficiency and sustainability. Today, heating, cooling, lighting and security systems integrate into central platforms. This enables detailed energy monitoring and identifies where improvements are needed.

The next step: edge computing and artificial intelligence directly within buildings. Edge systems process large data volumes locally, reducing latency and protecting user privacy. AI-powered systems continuously analyse sensor data, learn occupant behaviour, and adapt operations automatically – for example, unused rooms are no longer heated or lit. This intelligent approach reduces both energy consumption and carbon footprint.

For buildings and energy grids to work together effectively, open communication protocols and accessible standards are essential. These define how devices and systems exchange data. Devices respond automatically to grid signals – for example, smart meters adjust consumption in real time.

According to the IEA, by 2030 the number of smart meters and connected devices with automated control and sensors in buildings will nearly double. At the building level, building energy management systems monitor smart appliances, EV chargers, solar generation and storage systems – allowing buildings to optimize energy usage throughout the day.

The European standard DIN EN 15232 defines four automation classes: Class A is highly efficient; Class D has basic, inefficient control. In general, the higher the automation level, the greater the energy savings potential. Upgrading existing buildings to Class A automation can significantly reduce operational costs.

Direct Conversion of Electricity into Heat

Heat pump solutions are a cornerstone technology for the All-Electric Society. According to the European Heat Pump Association, the EU needs 60 million heat pumps by 2030 to achieve a 55% CO₂ reduction. These systems convert electricity directly into heating and cooling – eliminating fossil fuels.

To achieve this goal, we need more efficient and cost-effective heat pump solutions. Power electronics play a growing role. Highly integrated Intelligent Power Modules (IPMs) combine key control functions for compressors and fans into a compact package. This delivers higher power density, reduces space requirements, and improves reliability.

More efficient and cost-effective heat pump solutions are essential – and electronics play a growing role. Power electronics are key to increasing heat pump efficiency. Highly integrated Intelligent Power Modules (IPMs) combine key control functions for compressors and fans in a compact package, offering higher power density and reduced space requirements.

Efficiency Potential Is Fully Realized Only Through Grid Interaction

Today's buildings often contain decentralized energy resources: on-site solar generation, battery storage, smart EV charging stations and other connected devices. These buildings optimize energy use throughout the day by communicating with the grid and adjusting consumption accordingly.

Intelligent sensors, control systems and analytics integrate into building energy management systems (BEMS/BMS) to facilitate grid interaction. The result: buildings operate more efficiently, reduce operational costs, and support grid stability during peak periods.

Key Developments in Smart Street Lighting

Street lighting benefits from advances in semiconductor technology. Modern LED luminaires combined with sensors and intelligent controls deliver significant energy savings and increased safety. Systems adjust brightness in response to traffic levels and weather, and are remotely managed via smart networks.

Traditional streetlights are evolving into multifunctional infrastructure hubs. They now provide:

• Public Wi-Fi and emergency call systems
• Sensors for CO₂ and pollutant monitoring
• Traffic analysis tools
• EV charging stations

This accelerates urban digitalisation while creating new revenue opportunities.

Smart street lighting uses sensors for intelligent control – dimming at night or activating on motion detection. This approach, combined with LED technology and smart controls, dramatically reduces energy consumption. Modern systems integrate into smart city concepts for future-ready infrastructure.

To streamline the planning and implementation of solid-state lighting systems – including smart street lighting – EBV developed the LightSpeed platform. It provides everything needed for modern lighting deployment from a single source.