Building the Foundation of a Smart City in IKN: The Vital Role of IoT Technology
The Nusantara Capital City (IKN) megaproject is designed not only as a new government center, but also as an ambitious manifestation of a sustainable and modern smart forest city concept. In this vision, technology plays a central role, particularly the Internet of Things (IoT), which is now the backbone of environmentally friendly product innovation in the construction sector. We at Repiw.com see how this great opportunity attracts the attention of industry players, including PT Bernadi Utama, who are trying to strengthen their position through the integration of cutting-edge technology.
Bernadi Connect: IoT-Based Smart Water Heater Innovation
PT Bernadi Utama, through its Handal water heater brand, has taken a step forward by developing Bernadi Connect. This solution is an IoT platform that enables integrated control for water heating systems, making it an integral part of the smart building ecosystem. The President Director of PT Bernadi Utama, Aquinas Adipraja Rulan, emphasized that Bernadi Connect is not only about convenience, but also the company’s commitment to utilizing solar-based renewable energy. This is in line with the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility that are being promoted by IKN.
“With the increasing construction of housing, hotels, hospitals, and apartments every year, it provides an opportunity for the industry to provide the best for its consumers with innovative and quality products,” said Aquinas, highlighting the market dynamics that support the adoption of smart and green technology.
Harmonizing Market Preferences and the Sustainable Vision of IKN
The company understands very well that public preferences have shifted significantly. Modern consumers now prioritize products made with environmentally friendly materials, as evidenced by green labels, using renewable energy, and having minimal environmental impact throughout their production cycle. Aquinas explained that the high demand in the retail market for environmental awareness, combined with the concept of IKN as a smart forest city, encourages the company to innovate continuously. This includes the requirement to meet the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) requirements as a form of support for local resources.
“We continue to innovate in producing works that suit the needs of the community as the target market for the retail sector with such a high level of awareness of environmental preservation,” added Aquinas, describing Bernadi Utama’s proactive response to evolving market trends.
Handal’s Strategic Expansion in Vital IKN Projects
Bernadi Utama’s involvement in IKN doesn’t just stop at technology development. Handal’s National Sales Manager, Ferdinand Mahendra, revealed that Handal products through the Elterra brand have successfully penetrated the IKN market and are now used in prestigious projects such as the Nusantara Hotel, built by the Nusantara consortium, and the Pakuwon Nusantara superblock. This demonstrates the adoption of their technology on a large scale in vital IKN projects.
“Our target is to reach all market segments in the residential category, including private houses, apartments, boarding houses, hospitals, and hotels, in accordance with the development concept of IKN as a smart forest city,” explained Ferdinand, outlining a comprehensive market penetration strategy. With the launch of the latest products such as Handal Eco, Handal Prime, and Elterra, the company is optimistic that it can be widely accepted by various levels of society and meet a growth target of more than 50 percent in the water heater sector in 2024. This is a strong indicator of how smart and sustainable technology will dominate the IKN infrastructure in the future.
