Client story · Energy
How Pilar and Wirtek are transforming sustainable construction through IoT‑driven screw foundation technology, cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 85%
Pilar partnered with Wirtek (Seluxit) to build the Smarttorq IoT measuring system that makes screw‑pile foundations a reliable, regulator‑grade alternative to concrete — cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 85%.
Outcomes
- 85% CO₂ reduction compared to traditional concrete foundations
- Integrated SaaS solution for seamless data capture and compliance monitoring
- Optimised installation process minimises material waste and reduces project costs
- 98% time reduction in installing foundations vs concrete (pouring + curing)
Summary
With sustainability at the forefront and increasing pressure to comply with the EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), the construction industry is embracing innovative solutions to cut CO₂ emissions. Traditional concrete foundations are among the largest contributors to emissions in new buildings — concrete is the second most-used substance in the world after water. Screw pile foundations provide a groundbreaking, sustainable alternative capable of reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 85% compared to concrete.
Challenge
The widespread deployment of screw pile foundations faces hurdles. Without precise measurements and correct documentation, regulators and insurers resist the technology due to load-bearing capacity concerns. Construction companies need a reliable, automated system that ensures alignment with building regulations and eliminates risks of over- or under-dimensioning, incorrect placement and installation failures — all while minimising documentation to ease the transition from traditional concrete structures to the greener alternative that screw piles offer.
Solution
Pilar developed an innovative cloud-based SaaS solution combined with an advanced IoT measuring and guidance system. The IoT Smarttorq Unit uses high-precision sensors and advanced algorithms to measure stress, depth and torsion in drilling equipment, utilising edge computing to give live feedback to the installer and mitigate risks and errors. It fills a critical industry gap: the lack of a precise method for measuring key installation parameters.
Recognising the need for a technology partner, Pilar partnered with Seluxit (now part of Wirtek) to build a new IoT-powered solution for the Smarttorq Unit, integrating high-precision sensor technology and advanced software. Wirtek’s expertise in smart systems, energy software development services and hardware was key to delivering accurate measurement, real-time optimisation and seamless calibration of drilling equipment. The IoT Smarttorq Unit is engineered for resilience and high performance in tough environments such as construction sites; ongoing R&D is creating a sensor-equipped system capable of detecting the smallest variations in installation measurements, preventing failures and ensuring safe, efficient, scalable installation.
Unlocking growth in clean-tech solutions
Wirtek has become a trusted partner to Pilar, reinforcing its strategic expansion beyond traditional IT services into scalable, high-impact solutions. Wirtek’s acquisition of Seluxit and Pragmasoft accelerates its growth in IoT, automation and subscription-based revenue models. By collaborating with Pilar, Wirtek strengthens its commitment to Clean and Green Energy, positioning itself in the rapidly expanding IoT-in-energy market.
Results
Although still in development, Pilar’s collaboration with Wirtek is creating the world’s first comprehensive monitoring device for screw pile installations. This geotechnical engineering tool accurately captures the parameters needed to document screw pile installations:
- Compliance & structural reliability — real-time monitoring captures torsion, speed, advancement ratio and depth, ensuring reliable installation and regulatory approval.
- Automation & faster construction — IoT-powered measurement streamlines installation and minimises the risk of errors, leading to faster project completions.
- Sustainability & cost savings — optimised material use reduces waste, lowers costs and supports greener construction practices.
The scientifically validated solution makes screw pile foundations a reliable and scalable alternative to concrete, helping the construction industry achieve sustainability goals while maintaining performance and safety standards.
About Pilar
Pilar, winner of the prestigious Velux and Villum Foundation’s Building Component Prize (2023), is a visionary force in the construction sector. Born from cutting-edge research at Aalborg University, the company bridges academic excellence with practical application in its mission to revolutionise sustainable construction through technology.
“Developing a first-of-its-kind innovative IoT device is not a straightforward process. Wirtek's expertise and adaptability in overcoming these challenges have been crucial in developing a state-of-the-art IoT device, all while ensuring we stay on schedule.”