Montreal’s BrainBox AI today announced the launch of its technology combining deep learning, cloud-based computing and algorithms to support a 24/7 self-operating building.

The local startup called itself the first artificial intelligence (AI) technology designed specifically for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems (HVAC) in commercial buildings. The company claims its technology enables buildings to reduce energy costs by 25-35 percent and their carbon footprint by 20-40 percent.

Their solution leverages AI to predict a building’s thermal load and enables the HVAC system to operate autonomously, in real-time, leading to significant energy and cost savings. Brainbox claims a reduction in a building’s carbon footprint and increased occupant comfort in less than three months.

“AI-powered autonomous buildings are the next disruptive innovation that will enable significant energy savings in the real estate space,” said CEO Sean Neely. “BrainBox AI adds an extra layer of intelligence to the existing HVAC control system and enables buildings to move from being
reactive to pre-emptive.”

Neely added that his company is developing AI technology with partners like the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, IVADO, and Montreal-based universities such as
École de technologie supérieure.

BrainBox AI says it has demonstrated a 25-35 percent reduction in a building’s total energy costs in less than 3 months, and requires low to no up-front costs from property owners. It’s system delivers “predictive HVAC maintenance capabilities” including a diagnostics dashboard that informs building managers ahead of time if a service issue is imminent.

HVAC systems account for 51% 1 of the total energy usage in commercial buildings. Challenges include inefficient designs from an energy and comfort perspective, which lead to buildings being a major
contributor to climate change.

BrainBox AI integrates into a building’s existing HVAC system in less than half a day, deploying algorithms to drive a building’s HVAC system.

The result is a “24/7, self-operating building that requires no human intervention, functions at optimal efficiency, and ensures maximum comfort.”

“Our technology uses AI to study a building’s behaviour, sending more efficient operating instructions to the HVAC system and modulating the building in real-time to resolve issues related to energy
consumption, efficiency and occupant comfort,” said CTO and cofounder Jean-Simon Venne.