Aiot Platform Business Plan Template

Aiot Platform Business Plan Template & Services
Are you interested in starting your own aiot platform Business?
Industry-Specific Business Plan Template
Plug-and-play structure tailored to your industry. Ideal if you want to write it yourself with expert guidance.
Market Research & Content for Business Plans
We handle the research and narrative so your plan sounds credible, specific, and investor-ready.
Bespoke Business Plan
Full end-to-end business plan written by our team. Structured to support fundraising, SEIS/EIS applications, grants, and lender-ready submissions for banks and SBA-style loans.
Introduction
Global Market Size
Target Market
1. Smart Home Solutions: Homeowners looking for automation, security, and energy efficiency are prime candidates. This segment encompasses products such as smart thermostats, security cameras, and energy management systems. Targeting tech-savvy individuals and families seeking convenience and enhanced control over their living environments can yield significant opportunities.
2. Industrial IoT: Manufacturing and supply chain sectors are increasingly adopting AIoT solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and optimize operations. Targeting industries such as logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing can lead to partnerships with businesses looking to implement predictive maintenance, asset tracking, and real-time monitoring.
3. Healthcare: The healthcare sector is rapidly embracing AIoT for patient monitoring, telemedicine, and smart medical devices. Hospitals, clinics, and health tech startups are looking for solutions that can improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and enhance data analytics. Tailoring offerings to meet regulatory standards and ensuring data security will be crucial in this market.
4. Smart Cities: Governments and municipalities are investing in smart city initiatives aimed at improving urban living. Solutions that enhance public safety, traffic management, waste management, and energy usage are in high demand. Engaging with local governments and urban planners can open avenues for collaboration and project funding.
5. Retail: Retailers are leveraging AIoT for inventory management, customer engagement, and enhanced shopping experiences. With the rise of e-commerce and the need for omnichannel strategies, targeting retail businesses looking to integrate AIoT solutions can be a lucrative opportunity.
6. Energy and Utilities: Companies in the energy sector are exploring AIoT for smart grids, energy consumption analytics, and renewable energy management. Targeting utilities and energy management firms can lead to partnerships that promote sustainability and efficiency.
7. Consumer Electronics Manufacturers: Collaborating with manufacturers of consumer electronics to embed AIoT capabilities into their products can expand market reach. This includes smart appliances, wearables, and connected devices that enhance user experience. By conducting thorough market research and understanding the specific needs and pain points of these sectors, AIoT platform businesses can tailor their offerings and marketing strategies to effectively capture and serve their target audiences. Building relationships with stakeholders in these industries will also be key to establishing credibility and fostering growth in the competitive AIoT landscape.
Business Model
1. Subscription-Based Model: This model involves charging customers a recurring fee for access to the platform and its services. Businesses can offer tiered subscription plans based on features, usage, or the number of connected devices. This model ensures a steady revenue stream and fosters long-term customer relationships, as users are incentivized to stay engaged with the platform.
2. Pay-Per-Use Model: In this approach, customers are charged based on their actual usage of the platform's services. This model is particularly attractive for businesses that have variable usage patterns or those that are hesitant to commit to a subscription. It allows users to pay only for what they need, which can lead to higher customer acquisition rates.
3. Freemium Model: This model offers basic features of the platform for free while charging for advanced features or services. This approach can help attract a large user base quickly, as users can experience the platform without any initial investment. Over time, some of these users may convert to paying customers as they seek more advanced functionalities.
4. Data Monetization: AIoT platforms generate vast amounts of data through connected devices. Businesses can create revenue streams by analyzing and selling anonymized data insights to third parties, such as marketers, researchers, or other businesses. This model requires careful consideration of privacy concerns and regulatory compliance.
5. Partnership and Ecosystem Development: Forming strategic partnerships with other companies can enhance the value proposition of an AIoT platform. By collaborating with hardware manufacturers, software developers, or service providers, businesses can create integrated solutions that offer more comprehensive services to customers. Revenue can be shared based on the partnership agreements or co-marketing efforts.
6. Licensing and White Labeling: Companies can license their AIoT platform technology to other businesses, allowing them to rebrand and sell the service under their own name. This model can expand market reach without the need for direct customer acquisition efforts and can generate revenue through upfront licensing fees or ongoing royalties.
7. Consulting and Custom Solutions: Many organizations may require tailored solutions to integrate AIoT capabilities into their operations. Offering consulting services to design, implement, and support these custom solutions can be a lucrative business model, particularly for businesses with deep expertise in AI and IoT technologies.
8. Integrated Hardware and Software Sales: For some AIoT platforms, the business model may involve selling proprietary hardware (sensors, gateways, etc.) alongside the software platform. This integrated approach can simplify the customer experience and ensure that the hardware and software work seamlessly together, potentially increasing customer loyalty and satisfaction. By carefully evaluating these models and considering the target market's needs, an entrepreneur can choose the right business model or combination of models to effectively launch and grow their AIoT platform business. Each model presents unique advantages and challenges, so aligning the chosen model with the overall business strategy is crucial for success.
Competitive Landscape
Legal and Regulatory Requirements
1. Data Privacy and Protection: Given that AIoT platforms often handle vast amounts of data, including personal information, compliance with data protection regulations is paramount. In regions like the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes strict guidelines on how personal data is collected, processed, and stored. Businesses must ensure they have adequate consent mechanisms, data processing agreements, and robust security measures in place.
2. Intellectual Property (IP) Rights: Protecting the intellectual property of the AIoT platform is essential. This can include patents for unique algorithms, copyrights for software code, and trademarks for branding. Entrepreneurs should consider conducting thorough IP audits and possibly registering their innovations to safeguard against infringement and to enhance their competitive edge.
3. Industry-Specific Regulations: Depending on the sector the AIoT platform targets, there may be specific regulations to adhere to. For instance, healthcare-related AIoT applications often fall under strict regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the U.S. or the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) in the EU. Understanding and complying with these regulations is vital for legal operation.
4. Cybersecurity Compliance: Given the interconnectivity of devices in an AIoT ecosystem, cybersecurity is a significant concern. Many jurisdictions require businesses to implement specific cybersecurity measures to protect against data breaches and cyber threats. Compliance frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or ISO/IEC 27001 can provide guidance on establishing robust cybersecurity protocols.
5. Consumer Protection Laws: Businesses must also be mindful of consumer protection laws that govern the sale of products and services. These laws may cover aspects such as transparency, warranty, liability, and the right to withdraw from a purchase. Ensuring that the AIoT platform operates within these legal frameworks can help mitigate the risk of litigation.
6. Environmental Regulations: If the AIoT devices involve hardware that may impact the environment, businesses should be aware of environmental regulations governing electronic waste and emissions. Compliance with standards such as the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) in the EU is necessary to ensure sustainable practices.
7. Licensing and Permits: Depending on the technology used and the intended market, specific licenses or permits may be required to operate legally. This could include telecommunications licenses for IoT devices or software licenses for proprietary technology. It is essential to research and obtain all necessary approvals before launching the platform.
8. International Considerations: If the AIoT platform is intended for international markets, businesses must consider the legal and regulatory frameworks of those regions. Different countries have varying laws regarding data protection, consumer rights, and technology use. Engaging with legal experts who understand international law can help navigate these complexities. By proactively addressing these legal and regulatory requirements, entrepreneurs can establish a solid foundation for their AIoT platform business, minimizing risks and enhancing their chances of success.
Financing Options
1. Bootstrapping: This involves funding your business through personal savings or revenue generated from initial sales. Bootstrapping allows for maximum control over your business and avoids diluting ownership. However, it may limit your ability to scale quickly and can put personal finances at risk.
2. Friends and Family: Many entrepreneurs turn to friends and family for initial funding. This can be a relatively easy way to secure funds, but it’s essential to approach these arrangements professionally to avoid straining personal relationships. Clear agreements regarding repayment and equity stakes should be established.
3. Angel Investors: Angel investors are individuals who provide capital for startups in exchange for equity or convertible debt. They often bring valuable experience and networks that can help accelerate your business growth. In exchange for their investment, they may expect a say in business decisions and a return on their investment.
4. Venture Capital: For those looking to scale rapidly, venture capital (VC) can be an attractive option. VCs provide significant funding in exchange for equity and often seek high-growth potential businesses. The downside is that this route can lead to loss of control and increased pressure to deliver quick returns.
5. Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo allow entrepreneurs to raise small amounts of money from a large number of people. This not only provides funding but also helps validate your business idea. However, successful crowdfunding campaigns require effective marketing and can be time-consuming.
6. Grants and Competitions: Various government programs and private organizations offer grants specifically for technology startups, including those in the AIoT space. Participating in startup competitions can also provide funding and valuable exposure. Unlike loans or equity financing, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an appealing option.
7. Bank Loans: Traditional bank loans are another option for financing your business. They offer fixed repayment terms and interest rates, allowing for predictable budgeting. However, securing a bank loan can be challenging for startups, particularly without a solid credit history or collateral.
8. Strategic Partnerships: Forming partnerships with established companies can provide not just funding but also access to resources, technology, and markets. Strategic partners may be interested in investing in your company to leverage your innovative solutions within their own operations.
9. Incubators and Accelerators: Joining an incubator or accelerator program can provide funding, mentorship, and resources to help launch your AIoT platform. These programs often culminate in a demo day where startups pitch their ideas to potential investors. As you explore these financing options, it’s important to consider the implications of each choice on your business model and long-term strategy. A well-thought-out financing plan can provide the necessary foundation for your AIoT platform to thrive in a competitive market.
Market Research & Content for Business Plans
If you’re raising capital or applying for loans, the research and narrative matter more than the template.
Bespoke Business Plan
We handle the full plan end-to-end and structure it for investors, SEIS/EIS, grants, and bank or SBA-style loan submissions.
Industry-Specific Business Plan Template
Prefer to write it yourself? Use the template to keep everything structured and complete.
Marketing and Sales Strategies
1. Identify Target Market Segments: Understanding your target audience is essential. Segment the market based on industry verticals such as healthcare, manufacturing, smart cities, or agriculture. Tailor your messaging to address the specific pain points and needs of each sector, showcasing how your AIoT platform can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, or improve decision-making.
2. Content Marketing: Develop a robust content marketing strategy that positions your business as a thought leader in the AIoT space. Create informative blogs, whitepapers, case studies, and webinars that educate potential customers about the benefits of AIoT technology. Highlight successful use cases and demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) through data-driven insights.
3. Leverage Social Media and Online Communities: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific forums to engage with potential customers and industry influencers. Share valuable content, participate in discussions, and showcase your platform’s capabilities. Building a community around your brand can foster trust and encourage word-of-mouth referrals.
4. Strategic Partnerships: Form alliances with complementary businesses, such as hardware manufacturers, software developers, or industry-specific consultants. These partnerships can enhance your offering and expand your reach. Collaborating on joint marketing efforts, such as co-branded webinars or case studies, can also amplify your visibility.
5. Direct Sales Approach: Implement a direct sales strategy with a dedicated sales team that understands the nuances of AIoT solutions. Equip your sales representatives with comprehensive training and tools to effectively communicate the value proposition and technical advantages of your platform. Personalized demonstrations and pilot programs can help convert leads into customers.
6. Customer-Centric Approach: Prioritize customer feedback and actively engage with users to refine your platform. Offering excellent customer support and a seamless onboarding process can enhance user satisfaction and lead to positive reviews and referrals. Consider implementing a feedback loop where customers can suggest features or improvements.
7. Utilize Data Analytics: Leverage analytics to track customer behavior, preferences, and engagement with your marketing campaigns. This data can inform your strategies, allowing you to optimize campaigns based on what resonates most with your audience. Analyzing conversion rates will also enable you to refine your sales approach and improve overall effectiveness.
8. Participate in Industry Events: Attend and exhibit at industry conferences, trade shows, and seminars to showcase your AIoT platform. Networking at these events can lead to valuable connections and opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, speaking engagements can position your business as a leader in the AIoT field.
9. Referral Programs: Encourage existing customers to refer new clients by establishing a referral program. Offering incentives such as discounts or additional features can motivate satisfied users to share their positive experiences with others. Incorporating these strategies can help establish a strong market presence and drive sales for your AIoT platform business. With a focus on understanding customer needs, providing valuable content, and building relationships, you can successfully navigate the complexities of the AIoT landscape.
Operations and Logistics
1. Infrastructure Development: To support an AIoT platform, you need a reliable infrastructure that includes both hardware and software components. This may involve selecting cloud service providers or setting up on-premises servers capable of handling vast amounts of data generated by IoT devices. The infrastructure must also support data storage, processing, and analytics.
2. Device Management: Efficiently managing the myriad of IoT devices connected to your platform is essential. This includes ensuring device compatibility, deploying firmware updates, and maintaining security protocols. A comprehensive device management system can help monitor device health, performance, and connectivity, enabling proactive maintenance and troubleshooting.
3. Data Management and Analytics: The core of an AIoT platform lies in its ability to collect, analyze, and utilize data. Implementing robust data management practices is vital for ensuring data quality and integrity. Leveraging AI algorithms for real-time data analytics can facilitate better decision-making and enhance the platform’s value proposition. This involves setting up data pipelines that can handle data ingestion from various sources, followed by processing and visualization layers.
4. Integration and Interoperability: To attract a diverse range of customers, your platform should support integration with various devices and systems. This requires establishing APIs and protocols that allow different IoT devices and applications to communicate seamlessly. Ensuring interoperability among devices enhances user experience and broadens market appeal.
5. Supply Chain Management: If your business involves manufacturing or sourcing IoT devices, an efficient supply chain is critical. This includes selecting reliable suppliers, managing inventory levels, and ensuring timely delivery of products. Implementing systems for tracking shipments and managing logistics can help mitigate delays and enhance customer satisfaction.
6. Customer Support and Service: Providing excellent customer service is essential for building trust and retaining clients. Establishing a support team that can assist users with troubleshooting, onboarding, and ongoing maintenance will enhance the user experience. Consider implementing self-service options, such as FAQs and tutorials, to empower customers to resolve common issues independently.
7. Compliance and Security: Given the sensitive nature of data handled by AIoT platforms, adhering to regulatory standards and ensuring data security is paramount. This involves implementing strong cybersecurity measures, conducting regular audits, and staying updated on relevant legislation. Ensuring compliance not only protects your business but also builds customer confidence in your platform.
8. Scalability Planning: Lastly, planning for scalability from the outset is essential. As user demand grows, your platform must be able to accommodate increased data loads and additional devices without compromising performance. This may involve adopting microservices architecture, enabling horizontal scaling, and employing load balancing techniques to manage traffic efficiently. By meticulously planning and executing these operational and logistical components, you can create a solid foundation for your AIoT platform business, positioning it for success in an increasingly connected world.
Human Resources & Management
Conclusion
Why write a business plan?
Business Plans can help to articulate and flesh out the business’s goals and objectives. This can be beneficial not only for the business owner, but also for potential investors or partners
Business Plans can serve as a roadmap for the business, helping to keep it on track and on target. This is especially important for businesses that are growing and evolving, as it can be easy to get sidetracked without a clear plan in place.
Business plans can be a valuable tool for communicating the business’s vision to employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.
Business plans are one of the most affordable and straightforward ways of ensuring your business is successful.
Business plans allow you to understand your competition better to critically analyze your unique business proposition and differentiate yourself from the mark
et.Business Plans allow you to better understand your customer. Conducting a customer analysis is essential to create better products and services and market more effectively.
Business Plans allow you to determine the financial needs of the business leading to a better understanding of how much capital is needed to start the business and how much fundraising is needed.
Business Plans allow you to put your business model in words and analyze it further to improve revenues or fill the holes in your strategy.
Business plans allow you to attract investors and partners into the business as they can read an explanation about the business.
Business plans allow you to position your brand by understanding your company’s role in the marketplace.
Business Plans allow you to uncover new opportunities by undergoing the process of brainstorming while drafting your business plan which allows you to see your business in a new light. This allows you to come up with new ideas for products/services, business and marketing strategies.
Business Plans allow you to access the growth and success of your business by comparing actual operational results versus the forecasts and assumptions in your business plan. This allows you to update your business plan to a business growth plan and ensure the long-term success and survival of your business.
Business plan content
Company Overview
Industry Analysis
Consumer Analysis
Competitor Analysis & Advantages
Marketing Strategies & Plan
Plan of Action
Management Team
The financial forecast template is an extensive Microsoft Excel sheet with Sheets on Required Start-up Capital, Salary & Wage Plans, 5-year Income Statement, 5-year Cash-Flow Statement, 5-Year Balance Sheet, 5-Year Financial Highlights and other accounting statements that would cost in excess of £1000 if obtained by an accountant.
The financial forecast has been excluded from the business plan template. If you’d like to receive the financial forecast template for your start-up, please contact us at info@avvale.co.uk . Our consultants will be happy to discuss your business plan and provide you with the financial forecast template to accompany your business plan.
Instructions for the business plan template
Ongoing business planning
Industry-Specific Business Plan Template
Great if you want a structured plan today and you’ll write the first draft yourself.
Market Research & Content for Business Plans
Perfect if you need numbers, competitors, and a narrative suitable for investors or lenders.
Bespoke Business Plan
The highest-quality option if you want a fully written plan structured for investors, SEIS/EIS, grants, and bank or SBA-style loan reviews.
Bespoke business plan services
Our ExpertiseAvvale Consulting has extensive experience working with companies in many sectors including the aiot platform industry. You can avail a free 30-minute business consultation to ask any questions you have about starting your aiot platform business. We would also be happy to create a bespoke aiot platform business plan for your aiot platform business including a 5-year financial forecast to ensure the success of your aiot platform business and raise capital from investors to start your aiot platform business. This will include high-value consulting hours with our consultants and multiple value-added products such as investor lists and Angel Investor introductions.
About Us
Avvale Consulting is a leading startup business consulting firm based in London, United Kingdom. Our consultants have years of experience working with startups and have worked with over 300 startups from all around the world. Our team has thousands of business plans, pitch decks and other investment documents for startups leading to over $100 Million raised from various sources. Our business plan templates are the combination of years of startup fundraising and operational experience and can be easily completed by a business owner regardless of their business stage or expertise. So, whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a veteran businessman, download our business plan template and get started on your business growth journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a business plan for a/an aiot platform business?
How to customize the business plan template for a aiot platform business?
1. Open the template: Download the business plan template and open it in a compatible software program like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
2. Update the cover page: Replace the generic information on the cover page with your aiot platform business name, logo, and contact details.
3. Executive summary: Rewrite the executive summary to provide a concise overview of your aiot platform business, including your mission statement, target market, unique selling proposition, and financial projections.
4. Company description: Modify the company description section to include specific details about your aiot platform , such as its location, size, facilities, and amenities.
5. Market analysis: Conduct thorough market research and update the market analysis section with relevant data about your target market, including demographics, competition, and industry trends.
6. Products and services: Customize this section to outline the specific attractions, rides, and services your aiot platform will offer. Include details about pricing, operating hours, and any additional revenue streams such as food and beverage sales or merchandise.
7. Marketing and sales strategies: Develop a marketing and sales plan tailored to your aiot platform business. Outline your strategies for attracting customers, such as digital marketing, advertising, partnerships, and promotions.
8. Organizational structure: Describe the organizational structure of your aiot platform , including key personnel, management roles, and staffing requirements. Include information about the qualifications and experience of your management team.
9. Financial projections: Update the
What financial information should be included in a aiot platform business plan?
1. Start-up Costs: This section should outline all the expenses required to launch the aiot platform , including land acquisition, construction or renovation costs, purchasing equipment and supplies, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, marketing and advertising expenses, and any other associated costs.
2. Revenue Projections: This part of the business plan should provide an estimation of the expected revenue sources, such as ticket sales, food and beverage sales, merchandise sales, rental fees for cabanas or party areas, and any additional services offered. It should also include information on the pricing strategy and the expected number of visitors.
3. Operating Expenses: This section should outline the ongoing expenses required to operate the aiot platform , including employee salaries and benefits, utilities, maintenance and repairs, insurance, marketing and advertising costs, and any other overhead expenses. It is important to provide realistic estimates based on industry standards and market research.
4. Cash Flow Projections: This part of the business plan should include a detailed projection of the cash flow for the aiot platform . It should provide a monthly breakdown of the expected income and expenses, allowing for an assessment of the business's ability to generate positive cash flow and meet financial obligations.
5. Break-Even Analysis: This analysis helps determine the point at which the aiot platform will start generating profit. It should include calculations that consider the fixed and variable costs, as well as the expected revenue per visitor or per season. This information is
Are there industry-specific considerations in the aiot platform business plan template?
How to conduct market research for a aiot platform business plan?
1. Identify your target market: Determine the demographic profile of your ideal customers, such as age group, income level, and location. Consider factors like families with children, tourists, or locals.
2. Competitor analysis: Research existing aiot platform in your area or those similar to your concept. Analyze their offerings, pricing, target market, and customer reviews. This will help you understand the competition and identify opportunities to differentiate your aiot platform .
3. Customer surveys: Conduct surveys or interviews with potential customers to gather insights on their preferences, expectations, and willingness to pay. Ask questions about their aiot platform experiences, preferred amenities, ticket prices, and any additional services they would like.
4. Site analysis: Evaluate potential locations for your aiot platform . Assess factors like accessibility, proximity to residential areas, parking availability, and the level of competition nearby. Consider the space required for various attractions, pools, and facilities.
5. Industry trends and forecasts: Stay updated with the latest aiot platform industry trends, market forecasts, and industry reports. This will help you understand the demand for aiot platform , emerging customer preferences, and potential opportunities or challenges in the market.
6. Financial analysis: Analyze the financial performance of existing aiot platform to understand revenue streams, operating costs, and profitability. This will aid in estimating your own financial projections and understanding the feasibility of your aiot platform business.
7. Government regulations: Research local
What are the common challenges when creating a business plan for a aiot platform business?
1. Market Analysis: Conducting thorough market research to understand the target audience, competition, and industry trends can be time-consuming and challenging. Gathering accurate data and analyzing it effectively is crucial for a successful business plan.
2. Financial Projections: Developing realistic financial projections for a aiot platform business can be complex. Estimating revenue streams, operational costs, and capital requirements while considering seasonality and other factors specific to the aiot platform industry can be a challenge.
3. Seasonality: aiot platform are often affected by seasonal fluctuations, with peak business during warmer months. Addressing this seasonality factor and developing strategies to sustain the business during off-peak seasons can be challenging.
4. Operational Planning: Designing the park layout, selecting appropriate rides and attractions, and ensuring optimal flow and safety measures require careful planning. Balancing the needs of different customer segments, such as families, thrill-seekers, and young children, can be challenging.
5. Permits and Regulations: Understanding and complying with local regulations, permits, and safety standards can be a complex process. Researching and ensuring compliance with zoning requirements, health and safety regulations, water quality standards, and licensing can present challenges.
6. Marketing and Promotion: Effectively marketing and promoting a aiot platform business is crucial for attracting customers. Developing a comprehensive marketing strategy, including online and offline channels, targeting
How often should I update my aiot platform business plan?
Can I use the business plan template for seeking funding for a aiot platform business?
What legal considerations are there in a aiot platform business plan?
1. Licensing and permits: You will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate a aiot platform, which may vary depending on the location and local regulations. This may include permits for construction, health and safety, water quality, food service, alcohol sales, and more. It is important to research and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
2. Liability and insurance: Operating a aiot platform comes with inherent risks, and it is crucial to have proper liability insurance coverage to protect your business in case of accidents or injuries. Consult with an insurance professional to ensure you have adequate coverage and understand your legal responsibilities.
3. Employment and labor laws: When hiring employees, you must comply with employment and labor laws. This includes proper classification of workers (such as employees versus independent contractors), compliance with minimum wage and overtime laws, providing a safe and non-discriminatory work environment, and more.
4. Intellectual property: Protecting your aiot platform's brand, logo, name, and any unique design elements is important. Consider trademarking your brand and logo, and ensure that your business plan does not infringe upon any existing trademarks, copyrights, or patents.
5. Environmental regulations: aiot platform involve the use of large amounts of water and often have complex filtration and treatment systems. Compliance with environmental regulations regarding water usage, chemical handling, waste disposal, and energy efficiency is