With over 20 years in Contech and AECO digitalisation, Nick has founded two tech businesses was global technical engineering director at ATKINS, and served as commissioner for the National Infrastructure Commission in Wales.
How did you become involved in the Smart Buildings industry?
It's always been an area of interest for me and when I founded BRE Wales in 2005 I also established a research center at Cardiff University. Through this, I worked with Professor Yacine Rezgui, who is now a co-founder of Optimise-AI. He introduced me to the potential that digital technologies, particularly data and BIM (Building Information Modelling), offer in creating a more sustainable built environment.
What excites you about the Smart Buildings industry?
We've been discussing smart buildings for years, but the real opportunity lies in upgrading the 'dumb' buildings, which represent 99.9% of existing structures. What excites me is the chance to make these buildings smarter, something that has only recently become possible thanks to advancements in cloud computing, digital twins, and AI.
What services does your organisation offer?
We’ve developed patented software that uses digital twins and AI to address data gaps in 99% of buildings, offering insights into their performance against targets like MEES or EPC ratings. The key differentiator is that we provide actionable guidance on improving a building’s energy and carbon performance, outlining what needs to be done, when to do it, and how to implement those changes. Essentially, we offer a 24/7 virtual energy consultant.
Are people aware of the regulations that they will need to comply with in the near future?
Yes, most people are aware, but communication gaps still exist, which can lead to confusion. For instance, we're currently awaiting the government’s clarification on the timelines for Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, and this information is needed as soon as possible.
The Government has set targets for Non-domestic buildings to have an EPC rating of C by April 2027, B by 2030 and Net Zero by 2050—companies are confused on the best way to reach those targets effectively and within the timelines.
What are the benefits of a smart building?
A truly smart building optimises energy use and minimises carbon emissions, all while ensuring maximum comfort for its occupants. With advancements in technologies like AI, IoT, and digital twins, smart buildings are adaptable and scalable, ensuring they can evolve with new innovations and regulatory changes over time. With the increase in making the building smarter will come cost-savings and increased property value. So, it's a win environmentally and commercially to make your building smart!
Who has been the biggest influence in your career?
Without a doubt my co-founder, Professor Yacine Rezgui — one of the cleverest men I know.
What is the question you are most often asked in your business life?
"How are you using AI?"—which is a hot topic across all industries at the moment and one that we're perfectly aligned to answer as it sits at the core of our business.
What are the best/worst things about your job?
The best part is knowing I can make a real impact on future generations by using the knowledge my career has given me to help drive sustainable benefit through engineering and technology.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry?
Always be inquisitive and open minded, embrace what comes your way and learn from it.
What living person do you admire and why?
My wife, for putting up with me!
Where would you most like to live?
I'm exactly where I want to be living - The Gower, Wales. It's gorgeous and without a doubt the best place to live in the UK.
What is your favourite book?
The Lean Startup, by Eric Ries. How Constant Innovations Creates Radically Successful Businesses. An essential read for any startup and an international bestseller.
How do you relax?
Surfing - You never know what the wave will be like, the turn of the board and how the ride will be. It's my go to way to relax and decompress.
What sports team do you support?
I'm not really aligned to a particular sports team — I tend to support whichever on my kids are playing in at the time!
What is your desert island disk?
Everlong - Foo Fighters is a real belter of a tune.
What is your ideal holiday?
Surfing in Costa Rica—the beaches and sea are breathtaking.