Revolutionizing Energy Savings for Housing Associations: The Role of AI and the New Energy Calculator

As the winter chill descended on Västervik, the financial strain of rising district heating costs became painfully evident for the BRF Siktet housing association. Following consultations with Riksbyggen, they embarked on an energy optimization journey that resulted in a staggering reduction of 400,000 kilowatt-hours in energy consumption over a single year, translating into a saving of approximately 180,000 kronor. Rasmus Widlund, an energy engineer at Riksbyggen, highlighted the transformative impact of AI technology in energy management, stating that associations can save an average of 15 to 20 percent of heating energy. Not only do these savings pay off quickly—often within a few years—but they also enhance the indoor climate for residents, smoothing out temperature fluctuations and improving overall comfort. Recognizing the complexity and technical nature of energy-related issues, Riksbyggen has introduced a user-friendly tool called the Energy Calculator. This free service allows housing associations to input their specific details and instantly receive an estimate of potential energy savings in both kilowatt-hours and kronor. This marks a significant step towards demystifying energy consumption for boards, many of whom often feel overwhelmed by energy management decisions. "With the Energy Calculator, we aim to simplify the process. Boards can input their association's name and swiftly see how much they can save," explained Widlund. Following this, they have the option to schedule a meeting with an Energy Coach for personalized guidance. Riksbyggen’s energy portfolio is set to expand in October, featuring two tailored services: AI-guided Energy Optimization and Energy Optimization Plus, where an energy engineer conducts a comprehensive property review. Both services cater to associations with varying energy needs, ensuring appropriate measures are implemented. Success stories abound, such as that of BRF Rörestorpshus 2 in Värnamo, which has managed to save 17 million kronor annually through Energy Optimization Plus. This impressive savings enabled them to finance a window replacement project for 201 apartments without increasing fees. Widlund emphasizes that every housing association should start with an energy plan—assessing their property and identifying relevant measures. Common issues often involve control and regulation of heating and ventilation, which are crucial for cost-effective energy management. Furthermore, introducing individual metering and billing for hot water can lead to a reported decrease in usage of around 30%, benefiting both the association’s finances and equity among residents. When boards first calculate their energy usage, the results frequently serve as a wake-up call regarding the potential for savings, surpassing their initial expectations. The insights gained can be transformative, motivating them to take definitive action. To initiate energy savings, Riksbyggen recommends three key steps: 1. Test the Energy Calculator, which takes merely three minutes and provides immediate insights into potential savings. 2. Discuss energy issues within the board to determine how best to approach energy management—whether through AI solutions or a comprehensive engineer-led review. 3. Book a free meeting with an Energy Coach, who will interpret the results of the calculation and recommend the most effective measures specific to their property. In summary, Riksbyggen is paving the way for housing associations by simplifying energy management through innovative tools and expert guidance, enabling them to save money and enhance the living environment for residents. As we move forward into an era of heightened energy awareness, these strategies will undoubtedly become essential in the pursuit of sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3