Satellite Vu to trial thermal imaging technology at Surrey Research Park

By Daniel Face

21 March 2023

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Satellite Vu's thermal imaging

Space and climate tech firm Satellite Vu is set to test out its thermal imaging technology at Surrey Research Park, mapping the energy efficiency of its buildings.

The scheme not only presents an opportunity for Satellite Vu to validate and hone its software, but also offers useful data to Surrey Research Park and the University of Surrey as they aim for Net Zero emissions by 2030.

From June 2023, a series of flights across the 70-acre campus will provide temperature data on the structures below in near real time, combining to produce a pattern of life Thermal Index for the built environment.

Buildings currently consume 40 per cent of all energy use, and 220 million structures across Europe do not meet the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations set to arrive in 2030. Retrofitting the worst offenders offers a quick and cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.

Data from Satellite Vu will allow businesses to pinpoint key areas of heat loss and guide them as to where investments into retrofitting will make the largest difference. For now, the firm is working with institutions like Surrey Research Park to hone its insights.

The on-site trial will take the form of a five-stage programme of activities, comprising an aerial thermal imaging campaign, data processing, thermal analysis, energy consumption modelling, and interactive real-time data presentation.

Anthony Baker, Founder and CEO of Satellite Vu, said: “As governments and businesses model the road to Net Zero, satellite technology will be a critical asset due to its scalability and the comparability of the data.

“Satellite data already contributes to 50% of all climate change metrics, and we are hoping our infrared data set will be game changing in monitoring how human infrastructure is affected.

“Our project with Surrey Research Park represents a scalable solution; opening opportunities at every UK campus or innovation park, and providing a blueprint for housing associations and portfolio owners. We’re extremely pleased to partner with Surrey Research Park who are supporting us to pioneer this thermal solution.”

By Daniel Face

Born and raised in Berkshire, Dan fell into journalism after completing his bachelor’s degree in English at UCL.

Writing for The Business Magazine and local Biz News sites has given him the opportunity to chat with all manner of small business owners and share their success stories with a wider audience.

Outside of work, Dan enjoys live music, board games and quiz shows, and is making a slow but persistent effort to learn Spanish.