Exergio is bringing humanoid robots into the field of AI-driven energy management tools for commercial buildings. In March, it will begin training its first humanoid robot, powered by NVIDIA’s GR00T system, to improve management, detect faults, and enhance real-time system monitoring in commercial buildings.
Investment in humanoid robots is significantly growing, as the global humanoid market was valued at approximately $2.43 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow by $66 billion by 2032, translating to a CAGR of 45.5% during this period.
Meta, for example, has recently launched a new division within its Reality Labs to develop AI-powered humanoid robots for physical tasks. Tesla is launching its Optimus robot, a general-purpose humanoid meant to perform tasks that are dangerous, repetitive or boring for humans.
While most humanoid robots are designed for general-purpose tasks such as aiding in household chores, their deployment in specialised professional fields has been limited so far.
“Application of humanoid robots can be used beyond household tasks. They have plenty of potential in professional environments,” said Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio. “Managing energy in commercial buildings is complex. It’s not just about turning off lights or adjusting the thermostat. It requires real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and the ability to act fast. AI-powered humanoid robots can process vast amounts of sensor data, identify inefficiencies, and respond instantly to anomalies. For example, a robot can detect an overheating component before it fails or pinpoint false alarms that would otherwise waste time and resources.”
The humanoid robots used by Exergio will be equipped with NVIDIA’s GR00T system, which has an advanced AI framework designed to enhance perception and motor skills. Unlike proprietary humanoid AI models, GR00T offers open accessibility, allowing companies to train and adapt robots for their specific needs.
“We chose the NVIDIA GR00T platform because it provides the adaptability necessary in real-world industrial applications,” added Karčiauskas. “With GR00T, we can train robots to conduct on-site equipment inspections, detect early signs of system failures, and respond to alerts faster than human operators. In theory, such robots can verify false alarms, analyse inefficiencies in HVAC systems, and even assist in emergency scenarios by guiding personnel to safe exits. We’re here to train them.”
Exergio’s expertise in AI-driven energy management comes from years of optimising large commercial buildings. Its AI-based solutons applied in the shopping centre Ozas in Lithuania, for instance, helped to reduce energy waste by 29% and save more than €1 million.
Extensive amounts of data from different types of properties, ranging from hotels to office buildings, will help train humanoid robots to operate effectively within different energy management scenarios. It will also ensure the robots are well-equipped to analyse, predict, and respond to energy system inefficiencies.
The first training phase for Exergio’s humanoid robots is beginning in early March.
“AI has already changed the way we optimise energy in commercial buildings, but humanoid robots bring a new level of functionality. They can physically verify system alerts, inspect critical equipment, and assist in maintenance. That will reduce downtime and improve response times. This will create both energy efficiency but also create buildings that can actively manage themselves,” concluded Karčiauskas.
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