Turning An Electronic Invoicing System Into A Smart, AI-Driven Workflow

The Background

In 2008, a U.S.-based firm approached us with a bold vision: to revolutionize energy consumption for businesses through an Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) model. Their outlook was simple yet ambitious: install energy-efficient systems and IoT devices in business facilities without upfront costs and then earn profit by taking a percentage of the energy cost savings that their systems generate.

The Challenge

To make this model work, they required a comprehensive system capable of:

• 24/7 real-time monitoring across thousands of locations
• Optimizing energy use for diverse environments
• Predicting and preventing issues using data insights
• Protecting sensitive operational data with robust security

This system also had to perform seamlessly in environments such as restaurants, retail stores, and healthcare facilities, and deliver measurable savings with minimal human intervention.

What We Did

As a technology partner, we delivered solutions that integrated smart hardware, software, and AI, all with security embedded at every level.

1. IoT Devices
We engineered over 13 connected devices to monitor and control energy use, with several earning U.S. patents for their innovative designs, including:

• Smart thermostats for optimized HVAC control
• Power meters for precise energy tracking
• Automated light switches and in-wall outlets for efficiency
• Centralized site monitors for facility-wide management

Each device was custom-engineered, tested in our labs, and certified to meet various industry standards for reliability, safety, and compliance. Certifications included FCC for wireless transmission and UL and ETL for safety.

We delivered the entire scope of work, covering everything from device engineering to manufacturing, fulfillment, and after-market support, maintaining high quality and reliability throughout the project.

2. Software
Our software ecosystem brought these devices to life with features like:

• Real-time alerts: Notifications for events like temperature changes or equipment issues, enabling quick action.
• Smart scheduling: Automating energy usage based on occupancy or pricing to cut costs.
• Energy analytics: Tools to track trends and optimize performance with historical and real-time data.
• Edge processing: Performing critical data analysis at the device level to reduce latency and enable immediate decision-making for tasks like load balancing and predictive maintenance.
• Demand response: Adjusting energy consumption during peak periods to reduce costs.
• IoT fleet management: Keeping all devices updated and performing optimally.

This streamlined platform provided users with insights and tools to maximize efficiency and simplify operations.

3. Artificial Intelligence
We are actively implementing AI-driven features to enhance decision-making and boost efficiency across the system, with capabilities like:

• Predicting savings and usage trends for better planning.
• Detecting anomalies in energy patterns to prevent waste.
• A chatbot powered by large language models (LLMs) to handle queries and process complex data.

4. Security
We embedded robust security measures into every layer of the system, including:

• Regular firmware updates to defend against evolving cyber threats.
• Encrypted data transmission to safeguard information.
• Real-time device monitoring to ensure operational health.

The Results

Our client’s innovative EaaS model, deployed in over 10,000 locations, has transformed the industry:

• Cost savings: Customers reduced energy use by up to 30%, significantly lowering bills.
• Sustainability impact: Customers achieved annual carbon savings averaging 19%.
• Patented innovations: Several technologies we developed are now patented, further solidifying our client’s market leadership.

In 2024, our client is on track to nearly double their annual recurring revenue, almost reaching $200 million. Recognized as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies, they partner with major brands to deliver energy savings and support large-scale sustainability goals.

But it doesn’t end here. Together, we’re exploring new ways to innovate, refine, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in energy efficiency.