Rate My Professor Ria van den Berg

Ria van den Berg serves as Project Manager in the Information Technology Services Division at the University of Otago, Dunedin. She led the implementation of the University's pioneering Energy Analytics programme, the first in New Zealand to utilize large-scale AI-driven analytics for optimizing daily energy use in campus buildings. Partnering with CopperTree Analytics, van den Berg deployed the Kaizen Fault Detection and Diagnostics System, which aggregates data from Building Management Systems encompassing around 100,000 controllers managing heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and other systems. Initially rolled out in seven high-potential buildings—Mellor Laboratories, Faculty of Dentistry, Information Services Building, Otago Business School, William James Building, St David II, and Lindo Ferguson Building—the system delivers real-time insights into energy consumption anomalies, fault diagnostics, and optimization recommendations.

The programme has delivered substantial results, achieving a 15 percent reduction in energy costs during its first year across the targeted buildings, recouping its investment within two years amid the University's $22-25 million annual energy expenditure. It has also curbed emissions, minimized unplanned maintenance, and boosted operational efficiency by resolving issues such as thermostat misconfigurations, unreset manual overrides, and inefficient equipment cycling. Under van den Berg's management, the initiative earned the Supreme Winner title along with the Excellence in Technology Innovation Award at the 2023 Tertiary ICT Excellence Awards. Energy and Building Controls Manager Shane Jenkins credited her pivotal role, stating that without her, it would have remained just another good idea that did not come to fruition. Ongoing expansions include Te Rangihīroa College, Eccles Building, and Plaza Building. Van den Berg emphasized, “Information is power, this project has given University staff the power to increase energy efficiency through using building management and other systems information to create a tool to help the University save energy and reach its sustainability goals.”