Integrated Self-sustained Renewable-Energy Explorer (iSEE) (REF:C-0022)
E&M InnoPortal Trial Project Ref. No.:

Overview

Amidst energy and climate change crises, renewable energy (RE) is the only sustainable solution that is clean to use and helps achieving energy security, stable electricity prices and expedite energy transition.

In Hong Kong, we have always been relying on regional climate data provided by astronomical stations to estimate the potential power generation of renewable energy nearby. However, the data is incomprehensive, unreliable and insufficiently accurate, which makes users and investors hesitate.

To address these, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has invented the Integrated Self-sustained Renewable Energy Explorer (iSEE) which collects comprehensive weather data and provides real-time monitoring of renewable energy systems on the spot.

The iSEE leverages big data, digital twin, and AI technologies to collect and analyse data, and offers a mobile application for remote monitoring and maintenance recommendations. By providing a one-stop solution for assessing renewable energy potential and optimising power generation, iSEE promotes the adoption of renewable energy that helps achieving carbon neutrality.

Problem Addressed

Currently, there is a lack of reliable weather and RE data hindering government policies to support RE deployment, impeding investors making critical business decisions and limiting system owners to enhance profitability.

Moreover, the complex landscape of Hong Kong with its tall buildings and mountains, significantly affects RE resources like solar and wind. This underscores the importance of accurate RE assessment locally.

Furthermore, RE systems often encounter difficulties in management and maintenance due to their remote locations and high labour costs, impeding RE development worldwide.
Innovation

To tackle these challenges, the EMSD invented the Integrated Self-sustained Renewable-Energy Explorer (iSEE) which incorporates an Integrated Solar Energy Management System (iSMS). The iSEE leverages big data, digital twin, and AI technologies to collect and analyse data about renewable energy generation for those who are planning to install or have already installed RE systems.

The iSEE is equipped with built-in solar panels and batteries for a self-sufficient power supply. It adopts a portable and universal design, allowing for quick installation in locations without access to power or on existing renewable energy systems.

The combination is an all-in-one solution that collects on-site microclimate and RE system data, along with management software, offering yield prediction, remote monitoring, instant fault alerts, predictive maintenance and performance enhancement suggestions to address the needs of policymakers, green investors, sales, and owners of RE systems.
Key Benefits
  • On-site RE yield assessment function: Provides on-site data to estimate payback and facilitates investment decision-making
  • System monitoring function: Enables remote monitoring of multiple RE systems at different locations using a mobile device. Saving the cost for on-site technicians and frequent check-ups
  • Proactive maintenance and optimisation suggestions: Leveraging digital twin and AI technologies, it provides proactive maintenance and optimisation suggestions to enhance system performance and maximise profitability
  • User-friendly Interface:
    • Presents information using simple graphics and figures
    • Ensures easy understanding of instructions for rectification and optimisation, even for inexperienced workers
  • Electronic logbook function: Facilitates effortless monitoring and scheduling of maintenance activities. Reduces downtime and increases profits
Patent and Award
  • Intellectual Property Department, Short-term Patent: HK30081507
  • Intellectual Property Department, Standard Patent: HK20080848
  • The 48th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (Gold Medal)
Project Reference

Two local schools