Verizon Wireless provided the telecommunications network
that connects the digital meters, signs, and media players
used in Envision Charlotte—creating its IT infrastructure.
As of fall 2011, large interactive screens from Cisco were
installed in the lobbies of all buildings participating in
Envision Charlotte. Using digital energy technologies connected
by Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE (fourth generation) network,
Duke Energy collects and processes energy usage data
from about 70 participating buildings and streams it to the
screens in lobbies.
Building tenants see the near real-time commercial energy
consumption data for the community and suggested actions
they can take to reduce their personal energy usage in the
office. Having near real-time energy usage information keeps
people aware and is a first step toward proactive human
engagement to reduce wasted energy in commercial buildings.