With 80 per cent of the electrical industry believing that building automation and system connectivity is set to grow in importance for end users, and one in ten electrical consultants stating that connectivity solutions will be specified on all projects within five years, building automation is poised to become a significant market opportunity for many across the electrical sector
As interest grows across the industry, Hager recently hosted a unique event, ‘Kick off with KNX’ to showcase building automation solutions and further promote business growth opportunities.
The free event – held at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London – attracted a number of electrical contractors and consultants. The day included presentations from building automation experts who delivered tips on how contractors could diversify their business proposition and take advantage of potential new revenue streams offered by building automation technology innovation.
In addition, a series of practical workshops allowed delegates to familiarise themselves with KNX technology – which is the worldwide standard for all applications in home and building control – and provided an opportunity to test the extensive portfolio of Hager product solutions, which range from basic functionality through to high performing automation control systems.
Tips for growth
Some of the business building tips outlined by the panel of KNX experts included a strong recommendation for contractors to become KNX professional members, how automation solutions can be implemented into retro-fit projects and the new build market, and how to upsell to end users.
Matt Price, Hager’s Building Automation Support Engineer, and recently appointed KNX UK Association Board Member, comments: “The ‘Kick off with KNX’ showcase event was a huge success and was tangible proof that interest from the electrical industry around the growth potential of KNX solutions is currently very strong.
“Contractors, wholesalers and specifiers are realising the business building opportunities afforded by building automation across home, office, hospital and schools projects. It can provide energy efficiency answers and streamline the way a home or building operates. By using the event to promote KNX software enabled Hager product solutions, we believe we have increased building automation knowledge among stakeholders, enabling them to enhance their future business portfolios.
“Demand for building automation controls is expected to increase significantly over the next decade and Hager will be at the forefront of this trend by providing a combination of support and innovative system solutions to help the sector optimise what is a substantial market opportunity.”
Hager survey of electrical specifiers and consultants – 2017
