#Japan #Tokyo #Hitachi #Seven-Eleven #exiida

The Future of Energy Efficiency at Seven-Eleven

In an innovative move towards sustainability, Hitachi Global Life Solutions, a subsidiary of Hitachi Ltd., has partnered with Seven-Eleven Japan to initiate trials of their energy-saving air conditioning solution—exiida. This project aims to not only reduce the energy consumption of air conditioning units in stores but also to simplify equipment management, thereby contributing to a more comfortable and efficient working environment for employees.

Combining AI and Domain Knowledge

The exiida energy-saving control system is part of Hitachi’s next-generation solution set known as HMAX for Buildings. This system leverages advanced AI technology and extensive domain knowledge to manage and optimize the operation of multiple air conditioning units across specified Seven-Eleven locations—initially in 48 stores throughout Japan. By aggregating real-time operational data in the cloud, the solution effectively balances comfort and energy efficiency, targeting a significant reduction of approximately 30% in energy consumption based on preliminary data.

Supporting Sustainability Initiatives

As part of their commitment to addressing social challenges, Seven-Eleven is implementing various initiatives to reduce environmental impacts. This includes the installation of eco-friendly equipment and the creation of work environments that enhance employee comfort. The exiida system supports these initiatives by ensuring the air conditioning remains effective while decreasing electricity usage. Moreover, Hitachi’s automated feature for “frozen cleaning” helps minimize the need for manual maintenance by reducing the frequency of cleanings and maintaining optimal air conditioning performance.

Enhancing Employee Well-being

One of the primary objectives of this trial is to lessen the workload of store employees. By automating air conditioning operations and minimizing cleaning requirements, the initiative not only aims to ease the operational burden on staff but also enhance their overall work conditions. The focus on reducing maintenance tasks allows employees to concentrate on customer service and other crucial store functions.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the collaboration between Hitachi and Seven-Eleven has significant potential. The analysis of data obtained from the air conditioning units will allow for further innovations, such as automated inspections for monitoring refrigerant leaks and predictive maintenance features for potential equipment failures. Hitachi Global Life Solutions aims to contribute to the sustainable management of Seven-Eleven stores through the deployment of its cutting-edge digital services, including Lumada 3.0 and exiida.

Conclusion

Through the innovative use of AI and IoT, this project marks a noteworthy step towards achieving greater energy efficiency in retail settings. Hitachi’s dedication to enhancing both the operational efficiency of companies and the well-being of employees stands as a model for future sustainability efforts in various industries. For more information on Hitachi's solutions and their impact on the retail ecosystem, visit Hitachi GLS exiida.

The commitment of Hitachi Global Life Solutions to fostering a harmonious society by balancing environmental, economic, and social factors highlights an essential direction for future development in the industry. Their mission reflects a paradigm shift towards innovative solutions that deliver happiness and comfort to communities.