Electro: An idea to optimise energy consumption with AI

From an early age, Utshob Sutradhar was fascinated by computers. His curiosity led him to learn computer programming while still in high school.

A natural problem solver, Utshob is passionate about using modern technology to tackle real-world challenges. "Growing up, I loved solving practical problems with technology and always dreamed of creating something innovative," he shared.

One day, while in his department, he noticed that fans and lights in an empty classroom were still switched on. He wondered, "What if they could turn off automatically?" This simple observation sparked a series of ideas.

After much brainstorming, Utshob conceptualised a monitoring and controlling system powered by AI. This innovative thinking gave rise to his brainchild, Electro.

The idea not only solved a pressing issue but also earned him recognition as one of the nine winners of the TBS Scholar Hunt this year. Competing against some of the brightest minds from universities across the country, Utshob secured second place in the prestigious competition. 

Electro is an advanced automation system designed to enhance energy efficiency by minimising electricity wastage. It provides real-time data on consumption rates, fault detection, and other valuable insights, helping organisations optimise their energy use.

The product has the potential to revolutionise energy management by enabling true automation. It uses artificial intelligence to detect human presence and serves as an efficient AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) solution designed for real-world implementation.

Electro's business model is simple yet effective: it generates revenue by selling electronic monitoring devices and charging for premium features on its app.

The app comes with five key features:

1) App Control

2) AI Vision-Based Control

3) Manual Overwrite

4) Energy Consumption Reports (premium feature)

5) Faulty Device Detection (premium feature)

Users can access the first three features for free, but the fourth and fifth require a subscription fee for advanced functionality.

This innovative idea also gained recognition by becoming one of the champions in the University Innovation Hub Program (UIHP). With the motto "Investing in visionaries," the program rewards sustainable and socially impactful business ideas. 

Out of 1,548 applicants, 15 finalists competed in the final round, and the top nine participants, including Electro, received a grant of Tk1 lakh each.

Reflecting on the achievement, Utshob, the mind behind Electro, shared, "I am very happy and grateful. Being awarded by The Business Standard for contributing to the energy innovation sector is truly inspiring. This recognition motivates me to keep solving real-world problems and pursue a career as an innovator. Winning the Scholar's Hunt validates the effort and originality of my idea."

"With the funds, I want to develop the prototype further and make an early MVP to test my device in a real world scenario," he said.

Utshob is currently in his final year pursuing a BSc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University.

It was the first edition of the Scholar Hunt, a flagship competition organised by The Business Standard in association with TBS Graduates. It comprises three dynamic categories: Business Administration, Architecture, and Engineering and Technology which aims to inspire students to think strategically and creatively, presenting solutions with the potential for real-world impact.