The day
Atos, in collaboration with National Grid, NESO, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, Nexthink, and Circular Computing, hosted a “strathack” in December 2024 to explore how laptops can be transformed into smart grid devices to help achieve net-zero goals.
Key Objectives:
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Use laptops to reduce electricity grid load during peak, carbon-intensive periods.
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Leverage existing technologies and behaviours to support demand-side response (DSR).
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Promote energy awareness and user engagement without requiring new hardware.
Over two days, this dynamic group generated thought-provoking ideas, with a clear commitment from senior executives to drive progress. The next step will be advancing these insights through the establishment of a Sustainability Advisory Board.
Storyboard
Outcomes from the day
Our vision is a laptop that:
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Dynamically switches between mains and battery based on carbon intensity and grid demand.
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Uses real-time data from NESO to guide energy use.
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Keeps battery above 50% to ensure usability.
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Integrates with user calendars (e.g., Microsoft Outlook) to plan charging intelligently.
- Allows easy user control with override options and prompts.
Hackathon videos
Photo Gallery
