EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Goal

Our goal is to enable renters and homeowners to monitor and manage their energy costs in real time. We aim to develop an energy monitoring system that helps users cut costs and contribute to a greener future by providing timely, actionable insights into their consumption.

Methodology

Our research and development process combined two rounds of user surveys and expert interviews to identify core user needs and validate key product features. The first survey showed that users want to save energy but lack timely insights, often checking usage only when the bill arrives. Existing tools were seen as too complex and not user-friendly.

The second survey and expert interviews further confirmed that users highly value ease of use, financial clarity, and timely feedback. Instead of complex data or technical units like kilowatt-hours, users preferred energy-monitoring systems that present information in euro values, provide personalized recommendations, and offer simple forecasts. These findings reinforced the importance of designing a solution that is not only functional, but also intuitive and actionable for the average user.

Results

We developed Trackergy as a user-centered energy monitoring ecosystem, combining a mobile app with an easy-to-install sensor and smart plug. The app features real-time euro-based cost tracking, personalized energy-saving tips, and budget forecasting tools — all designed to make energy data understandable and actionable. These functions were validated through mockups and user interviews to ensure relevance and ease of use.

On the hardware side, the sensor provides real-time energy tracking without the need for professional installation, while the smart plug reduces standby losses through automated device control. Both components connect to the app via Wi-Fi and MQTT, enabling personalized feedback and real-time savings insights. Together, they form an intuitive and affordable solution that helps households manage their energy use, cut costs, and reduce waste.

Cooperation Partner

• Trackergy

Contact Person

• Maximilian Dieringer - h12314676@s.wu.ac.at

Student Team

• Maximilian Dieringer
  David Levy
  Magdalena Prankl​
  Noah Weidenhaupt
  Wei-Yin Hung
  Dénes Bajnok​

Project Manager

• Dragos-Cristian Vasilescu

• Diana Lauer

• Thomas Pannermayr

• Caroline Kunesch