Wyless, a leading global M2M managed services provider, detailed some of its customers who are today delivering innovative "green" machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions on the robust network of T Mobile USA. From solar-powered, wireless parking meters that allow credit card payments to a web-based irrigation control system, the solutions from IPS Group, GreenRoad, Weathermatic and EDC Technologies are positively impacting our society – both protecting the environment and saving money and time for businesses and consumers.
"When innovative 'green' M2M solutions are paired with Wyless' managed services and T-Mobile's nationwide network, lives can be enriched and the environment protected. This is M2M at its most rewarding," said Dan McDuffie, CEO at Wyless.
"Innovative connected devices are changing the way we live – from the way we interact with our doctor or our vehicle to how we manage our energy efficiency or pay on-street parking meters," said Jeremy Korst, vice president of wholesale (MVNO/M2M) at T-Mobile USA. "Not only do these 'green' solutions reinvigorate our commitment to have innovative solutions on our network, they dare us to dream about what is next. The possibilities are endless for M2M."
Solar-powered connected parking meters
In today's economy, consumers and businesses alike are looking for convenient, cost-effective solutions to everyday problems. Unlike old, battery-powered models, the solar-powered connected parking meters from IPS Group take the pain and stress out of parking, allowing users to pay with coins, a credit card, or a reusable, rechargeable parking 'debit card.' In addition to customer convenience and "green" technology, these meters offer lower maintenance and operating costs for municipalities nationwide. Revenues in locations with IPS meters typically increase between 20 and 40 percent within 6 months of installation and data collection time can be reduced by as much as 95 percent. Furthermore, because the meters are solar powered, municipalities needn't worry about the disposal of hundreds of thousands of batteries each year.
Safety and fuel consumption manager for fleets
Across the U.S., businesses and consumers alike are being significantly impacted by rising fuel costs. In fact, according to a recent survey by GreenRoad, the leader in driver performance and safety management, fuel costs represent 26 to 75 percent of total costs for more than 61 percent of all fleets. Driver behavior, such as rapid acceleration, speeding and harsh braking can dramatically impact fuel consumption, contributing to higher costs and increased fuel emissions. With a technology-based personalized driver performance solution, like the GreenRoad Driver Improvement Loop™, organizations see improved efficiencies, reductions in fuel costs as high as 12 percent, as well as reduced emissions. Furthermore, with the GreenRoad solution, risk is reduced and safety improved with real-time driver feedback, resulting in fewer crashes. The GreenRoad solution has garnered over 25 awards since 2008, most recently GreenFleet Awards and the International Road Safety Award, both in 2011.
Web-based irrigation control system
Ordinary irrigation systems cannot adjust to changing weather conditions, often resulting in overwatering, high water bills and potential property damage. For commercial and municipal properties, web-based irrigation control systems and wireless controllers, such as the SmartLink Network from Weathermatic, can dramatically reduce water consumption and provide significant water bill savings. For as little as $0.50 per day, users of SmartLink can monitor and control irrigation, respond to system alerts, and generate monthly reports on water usage and savings – all from a connected smartphone, PC or tablet. In a recent SmartLink pilot conducted by a leading national retail bank, it was estimated that water consumption would be reduced by approximately 9.8 million gallons of water and $56,000 in savings would be realized across just six of the bank's properties in the first year. Project payback was estimated at 3.3 months.
Energy conservation through advanced hot water controller technology
Today, with the advent of the Internet, energy savings are achieved by analyzing and programming water temperature to meet the actual demand needed for each half hour on a weekly cycle. Additionally, savings are achieved through designing and fine-tuning the heating system for maximum efficiency. With advanced hot water controller technology, EDC Technologyclients, include Natural Gas Utilities, property management companies, hotel owners, restaurants and senior care facilities, not only achieve significant energy savings, but they are also provided with remote and proactive monitoring which records of the nuances of day to day usage looking for system anomalies and performance irregularities. This proactive approach ensures that cost effective changes can be achieved long term providing true sustainability. Among the many recognitions their technology has received, EDC Technologies was awarded Gold for its Hot Water Controller at the 2011 Connected World M2M Value Chain Awards.