Wireless power is gaining traction in the design of smart and green buildings, writes Charles Greene, COO and CTO at Powercast
Smart buildings are reshaping modern infrastructure by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort. At the core of this transformation is Internet of Things (IoT) technology, which enables seamless connectivity between devices for real-time monitoring and control. However, traditional power sources—particularly batteries—pose significant challenges that hinder the full potential of smart buildings. Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) offers a compelling alternative, providing a more scalable, reliable, and environmentally sustainable energy solution for IoT ecosystems.
The limitations of traditional power sources
Smart buildings rely on a vast network of IoT devices, ranging from environmental sensors and automated lighting to security systems and HVAC controllers. As these technologies become more integrated into the fabric of building operations, the need for a stable, long-term power solution grows exponentially. Unfortunately, many of these devices still depend on battery power, leading to several key drawbacks:
- High maintenance costs: frequent battery replacements across large-scale deployments lead to increased labour costs, operational downtime, and logistical complexities
- Environmental impact: the production and disposal of batteries contribute significantly to electronic waste, with studies suggesting that they are responsible for more than 40% of the hazardous chemicals found in landfills.
Wireless Power: a smarter, more sustainable alternative
WPT addresses these challenges by enabling continuous, untethered energy delivery to IoT devices. Key benefits include:
- Greater flexibility: devices can be installed in optimal locations without being constrained by power outlets or battery limitations. This enhances the efficiency of automation and sensor networks
- Reduced environmental footprint: By minimising reliance on disposable batteries, WPT helps reduce e-waste and carbon emissions, aligning with sustainability goals
- Enhanced design freedom: eliminating wired connections improves architectural aesthetics and allows for seamless integration of smart technology without visual clutter
Enabling WPT adoption in smart buildings
The adoption of WPT is already underway, with advancements addressing past concerns and accelerating its integration into smart buildings. Several key factors are driving this shift:
- Technology advancement and standardisation: wireless power is becoming increasingly efficient and standardized, ensuring seamless integration with existing IoT infrastructure. Innovations in resonance-based and radio frequency-based WPT are enhancing performance, reliability, and interoperability
- Cost efficiency and scalability: as adoption increases, manufacturing efficiencies are driving down costs, making WPT a viable and competitive alternative to traditional wired power and batteries. Organisations that invest early will benefit from long-term operational savings and reduced maintenance expenses
- Regulatory and safety progress: industry leaders and regulatory bodies are actively shaping frameworks to ensure safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and compliance with building codes. These efforts are paving the way for smooth deployment and increased trust in the technology
- Collaborative innovation: rechnology providers, construction firms, and enterprises are working together to integrate WPT into smart infrastructure projects. This collaboration is driving innovation and ensuring that solutions meet the real-world needs of modern buildings
- Growing awareness and confidence: with successful deployments demonstrating the reliability and benefits of wireless power, misconceptions around safety and efficiency are fading. Businesses are increasingly recognising WPT as a transformative technology that enhances both operational efficiency and sustainability
Empowering smart buildings: wireless power fuels IoT and sustainability
Wireless power is rapidly gaining traction in smart building design, offering a scalable solution to the limitations of wired and battery-powered systems. Facility managers are already using WPT to streamline operations, power critical IoT devices, and eliminate the recurring costs and environmental toll of battery maintenance. This isn’t a glimpse into the future—it’s happening now.
As adoption expands across commercial real estate, healthcare, education, and other sectors, more smart buildings are integrating wireless power to support mission-critical systems like occupancy sensors, air quality monitors, and access controls. This movement is redefining how technology and sustainability intersect—ushering in a smarter, greener standard for intelligent infrastructure.
Why it matters
Wireless power presents a strategic opportunity to optimise operations, reduce costs, and drive sustainability. By eliminating reliance on disposable batteries and hardwired installations, businesses can create more efficient, scalable, and resilient environments. As the demand for smart technology grows across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, adopting WPT will be a key differentiator in building the next generation of intelligent spaces.
Dr. Charles Greene is the Chief Operating and Technical Officer of Powercast Corporation, a provider of far-field RF-based wireless power, inductive technologies, and magnetic resonance.
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