Schneider Electric is stepping up its efforts to serve the smart building and property sector of New Zealand by expanding its partner program EcoXpert.

EcoXpert is a training and certification program that gives digital integrators the tools to build complex digital solutions within buildings. It also provides training and access to open platforms, such as the company’s Internet of Things (IoT) enabled platform, EcoStruxure. These platforms allow buildings to operate more efficiently.

The expansion was launched in Queenstown in front of 130 business operators, as well as Olympic athlete Alisa Camlin who spoke about the importance of surrounding yourself with great people.

Schneider Electric president and managing director Gareth O’Reilly says the development of a national pool of EcoXperts is one of the key aims of the program.

“For New Zealand, that means building owners, operators and asset managers can confidently build or manage effective and operationally efficient workspaces by using EcoXpert certified contractors who are fully capable of embedding the required smart and connected systems.”

Their specialisation, across a number of areas such as hotels, healthcare and retail, in both connected and edge technology would strengthen the industry, Gareth says.

“We’re entering an unprecedented era of humankind. Digital technologies are driving change across our personal lives, homes, cars, jobs, and buildings. Digital transformation isn’t just an option, it has to be the strategy. Those that do prepare themselves with the skills and certifications for implementing the emerging technology and software within the new homes or retails spaces or commercial buildings, will be the ones that succeed.”

The expansion of the program into New Zealand also presents an opportunity for Schneider to enable existing businesses to grow beyond existing infrastructure.

Digital Buildings vice president Jay Rocavert says: “This isn’t just about technology, this is about focusing on customer issues and delivering solutions. By enabling the EcoXpert channel we are able to make a difference by deploying new technologies into New Zealand that for the first time can properly measure workplace wellness, or isolate energy use within complex buildings or personalise scene setting for hotel rooms.”

Jay believes that the tourist sector will be a major beneficiary of the EcoXpert services.

“For example, with a hotel, the user experience that everyone is looking for is one that is not just enhanced but personalised to each customer. To bring that technology to the forefront, it requires specialisation in the hotel segment.”