Sustainable automation: Reducing carbon footprint with energy-efficient RPA solutions

Abstract

Sustainable automation through energy-efficient Robotic Process Automation (RPA) solutions plays a critical role in reducing carbon footprints by optimizing energy use in IT operations. Leveraging RPA technology, we developed a system that automates energy-saving operations in central monitoring equipment installed in buildings. This system operates seamlessly over a local area network, allowing it to perform optimizations irrespective of the central equipment's specifications. Key energy-saving measures include optimizing heat source system operations, adjusting supply water temperatures, setting room temperatures, and managing outside-air intake volumes. By automating these tasks, the system alleviates the burden on operations managers while significantly reducing energy consumption and emissions. In a trial implementation at a large shopping mall, the system achieved a 44% reduction in energy consumption for outside-air processing and a 47% decrease in CO2 emissions.