BrazilAccenture and Google Cloud co-develop solar energy tool
Accenture has teamed up with Google Cloud to co-develop an online solar tool for Origin Energy, an Australian energy company.
Australia’s largest energy provider Origin collaborated with Accenture and Google Cloud to launch the DIY online solar tool for customers to determine the performance of solar energy for their homes.
The tool uses 3D data, visual artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to provide customers with quick, accurate and tailored recommendations of how solar will perform on their rooftops and their potential savings within 10 minutes.
“This innovative solution was built by Accenture data scientists with expertise in solar and industrial engineering, and showcases the potential of cloud as a launchpad for powering advanced analytics and visual artificial intelligence,” said Ben Tulloch, a managing director and lead for the Accenture Google Cloud Business Group in Australia and New Zealand.
“Our goal is to help Origin grow through hyper-personalised solar offerings for more than two million households.”
The platform can provide customers with solar power generation forecasts, system and installation costs, potential energy and bill savings, and details on the investment break-even point, providing a complete assessment of the merits of a potential investment in solar panels.
Machine learning is used to calculate the most suitable solar product for any household. Calculations are based on details including roof pitch, area and shading from obstructions, coupled with insights on specific household energy consumption.
Duncan Permezel, Origin’s general manager of retail sales and marketing, said the tool will save customers time and help them to understand the benefits of solar for their homes so they can make an informed decision about what is best for them.
“Previously, prospective solar customers would need to speak with a sales agent and schedule a site inspection to gain this level of personalisation and detail in their quote, a process which can sometimes take weeks,” said Permezel.
“For customers who would prefer to chat to a solar expert or have someone visit their home to inspect their roof, that level of service is still something we provide. This online solar platform is another way that we are trying to make it easier for more customers to access cleaner, smarter and more affordable energy solutions.”
The Origin team and Accenture’s data scientists worked closely with Google Cloud to bring the tool to life. “Solving for climate change is a top priority for Google Cloud, and this innovative new solution by Origin, made possible by our collaboration with Accenture, is a great example of how we can equip households across Australia with the platform to make a difference,” said Alister Dias, Vice President of Google Cloud in ANZ.
