VERGE
There is a coming convergence of four technology platforms: energy, information, buildings, and transportation. We call it VERGE. This convergence is fundamentally transforming cities, companies, campuses, and communities, providing a wide range of opportunities for companies across a range of sectors. GreenBiz has launched a series of VERGE conferences around the world, in addition to a free, year-round virtual conference, focusing on the implications of convergence for business and sustainability.
- How does technology convergence change the nature of cities and suburbs, and how we live, work, travel, play and shop? A new report says innovation is coming to a neighborhood near you.
- AutoGrid Systems is the newest startup to tackle the big (and unstructured) data smart grid challenge.
- November 9-11, hackers came together at Code for America's Headquarters for "Hack City" - a 3 day-long Cleanweb hackathon at VERGE.
- In partnership with The Sustainability Consortium, the big-box giant announces big plans in China involving supply chain research, sourcing and product design.
- The city is challenging residents to use the massive amount of energy data generated in their homes as a tool to encourage greater sustainability.
- A Netherlands pilot project allows for hyperlocal energy transactions -- think of it as an eBay model for buying and selling electricity.
- Transitioning to complex, high-performance, energy efficient buildings requires pointing out the failings of current building management systems. Here's why they don't work.
- Leaders from IBM, Google, White House and other entrepreneurs, thought leaders and policy makers among nominees promoting convergence of IT with energy, buildings and transportation.
- Reducing IT’s energy consumption is synonymous with cutting costs -- and carbon. Data Center Infrastructure Management is the tool that can help IT managers and CFOs make that happen.
- At our recent VERGE São Paulo event, leaders from IBM, GE and WWF agreed that private sector collaboration is needed to help spur advancements in sustainable technology.
- Companies like Echelon are expanding into international markets. Can other manufacturers take advantage of the rising demand?
- After centralizing data that detailed its consumption and spending habits, the grocery giant mitigated risk through negotiating stable rates and long-term purchase agreements.
- As cities become more populated, planners are going to have to start thinking hard about open spaces.
- How to save tens of billions of dollars, create a catalyst for the renewable energy industry, improve utility profitability, strengthen security and slow global climate change.
- Sensors, mobile applications and new communication technologies are delivering dynamic new, cost-effective transportation options.
- Anthony Ravitz, real estate and workplace services green team lead at Google, talks about how data transparency helps drive the company's sustainability strategies.
- Measuring the costs and benefits of LEED certification is easier now that multiple studies have shown green buildings sell for higher prices and draw higher rents.
- How always-on connectivity in vehicles is creating breakthroughs in wireless communication applications, data sharing, and transportation business models.
- Citibank's head of green buildings talks about the three ingredients to sustainability success.
- Blackstone acquisition of Vivint for $2B shows enormous potential big players are seeing in field.
