OpenBEERS: A Platform for Smarter, Sustainable Choices

Idiap researchers Jerôme Kämpf and David Geissbühler together with HES-SO Valais/Wallis research scientists have conceived a platform to understand and manage energy consumption in Valais region of Switzerland.

In response to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions and the limited understanding of large-scale energy management platforms, the OpenBEERS project proposes a platform that simulates energy scenarios in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, empowering people to make informed, sustainable decisions.

The platform consists of three components: a database of building information, a suite of open-source simulation tools for modeling current and future scenarios, and a 3D web interface for data visualization. It also integrates two specialized tools: CitySim, a software for urban infrastructure simulation, and BASOPRA, a tool that optimizes solar energy use through batteries, heat pumps, and electric vehicles.

The project focused on the municipalities of Sierre and Val de Bagnes, using real or synthetic data as needed. Findings reveal that energy data in Valais is fragmented, making simulations challenging. Electricity demand is expected to rise sharply with the electrification of heating and mobility, while solar and battery storage alone will not fully address seasonal fluctuations, highlighting the need for long-term storage solutions and rapid building renovations.

The interdisciplinary OpenBEERS team has combined knowledge in energy engineering, AI, data management, and system modeling to create a strategic tool that accelerates Valais’s energy transition and strengthens its energy system, perfectly aligning with Idiap Sustainable and Resilient Societies Research Program.

Paper: https://www.idiap.ch/paper/openbeers/
Platform: https://lab.idiap.ch/openbeers/

Learn more in the press release: Idiap and HES-SO Valais/Wallis Partner to Accelerate Valais’ Energy Transition