Ten Scottish councils have applied to take part in a trial of innovative IoT energy monitoring sensors, which could help in cutting energy use and reducing costs across their estates.

The project, developed in collaboration between the Digital Office for Scottish Local Government, Perth & Kinross Council, and building performance platform Aireavu, will see local authorities test these systems in schools, leisure centres, workshops, and large office buildings.

It’s hoped that by collecting real-time data on energy use, the scheme will spot waste and performance issues that will help the councils meet their carbon commitments and provide an evidence base for sector-wide adoption.

“We are excited by the opportunity to work with council energy managers and property managers to explore innovative digital approaches to identify practical opportunities for reducing energy consumption and minimising carbon emissions,” said Colin Birchenall, CTO for the Digital Office.

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Backed by a grant from the Scottish Government’s Public Service Reform (PSR) Invest to Save fund, the scheme will first review Expressions of Interest to confirm what can be delivered within the project’s timescales and budget, before moving into detailed planning with the councils’ chosen.

“As Chair of the Digital Office Board, I’m delighted that the team secured this funding to support greater use of technology in addressing energy efficiency in our public estate,” said Thomas Glen, chief executive of Perth and Kinross Council.

“This is a key area in delivering on our climate ambitions, financial efficiency and wider public service reform, and through our estates and energy networks. I’m pleased that a number of councils across Scotland have taken the opportunity to be involved in this project.”