The energy efficiency project carried out by Utopi was rolled out in March 2024 and consisted of 1480 Vicki LoRaWAN® Smart Radiator Thermostats that were installed in each room to offer clients remote control of room temperatures according to the individual needs of the occupants. The Vicki radiator thermostats together with The Utopi Platform allowed schedule creation, maintained stable temperature levels, and were used based on the occupancy of the rooms and the needs of the inhabitants. A schedule was applied where the temperature was set to a maximum of 23°C with automatic step downs to 18°C after 24 hours and 7 degrees after 36 hours. During the 2024/2025 heating season, the number of overheated rooms (above 24°C) in one of the buildings decreased by 34%. Across both buildings, total energy consumption was reduced by 5,463 kWh, resulting in an estimated cost saving of £87,058. With the support of the Utopi Impact Team in turning raw data into actionable insights, the student accomodation was equipped with real-time data that allowed them to react quickly, identify outliers, and significantly reduce on-site energy waste.

All the implemented innovations resulted in improving the building’s carbon footprint, simplified sustainability reporting, and allowed for improved resident comfort.