Integrated Self-Sustained Renewable-Energy Explorer (iSEE)

Abstract

In World Energy Transitions Outlook 2022, IRENA projects that the annual solar PV addition will need to be 3.5 times that of 2020. With the global adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects and cost reductions for solar power generation, solar PV is the top priority in end-use decarbonisation to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Thus, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department of the Hong Kong SAR Government invented the Integrated Self-sustained renewable-Energy Explorer (iSEE). iSEE is developed to assess microclimate data and optimise renewable energy generation. The iSEE is the first-of-its-kind, integrating an all-in-one tool and novel cloud-based software with powerful functionalities for assessing solar potential and managing and enhancing PV system performance. The iSEE is self-sustainable with built-in solar panels and batteries, that can be readily deployed in remote locations for potential and existing solar energy systems. The iSEE adopts emerging technologies such as digitisation, IoT sensors, big data analytics, digital twins and artificial intelligence (AI). End-users can access the data on mobile devices or computers at remote locations, which enables remote asset management. Academia, government and other stakeholders may access the open data for further technology development. Three prototypes have been successfully deployed at schools and a university in Hong Kong. The invention has received two patents and won the Gold Prize at the 2023 Geneva International Exhibition of Invention. This paper will provide details of the features of the iSEE, the state-of-the-art technologies adopted, and the challenges tackled during its development.