2 MIN. READ
Market research predicts that the total revenues of the dedicated internet of Things (IoT) will reach $990 million by 2030. This forecast flows from the ability of satellites to connect IoT devices. The need for IoT linking of devices grows every day, and demand for satellites grows with it.
Some of today’s major cities, dubbed “smart cities,” are highly connected through the internet. More cities are looking to advance online services.
Data streams from everywhere in the urban environment. While monitoring of vital services is nothing new, cities are also looking to IoT to improve the quality of their residents’ everyday lives. Three of the most impactful IoT applications are:
- The delivery of power.
- Rapid response to weather conditions.
- Healthcare.
All of these deserve further exploration.
Power
Smarter cities need a smarter power grid to support IoT growth. Conversely, a smart grid will need the IoT to operate. Utilities will add sensors transmitting on wireless networks. Power companies will also use data from end-users. When added to systems already in place the networks will reach larger areas. A reliable internet connection will be crucial.
Smart employment of IoT can reach almost any business with an electrical socket. Utilities are installing smart meters on buildings. These meters allow utilities to track consumption. By using that data, they can improve energy management. In addition, these installations decrease the need for on-site troubleshooting.
Consumers will also spend less time in the dark. Energy providers can use the IoT to zero in on outages and get the lights back on faster. Utilities can also use internet connections to adjust pricing and install new load programs.
In 2020, the global market for these smart meters was $21.79 billion. It’s expected to hit $54.34 billion by 2030. With this growth, utilities can look forward to providing more streamlined and efficient services.
Weather
All weather prediction depends on the collection of data. More than 1,000 weather satellites orbit the earth. They gather vital information and stream it where it’s needed. IoT-connected sensors provide the input to build systems that interpret cloud patterns. They will also pick up even the slightest changes in temperature, humidity, and wind direction. Analyzing this information helps predict dangerous conditions.
Improvements in wireless connectivity and implementation of 5G contribute to the effectiveness of IoT-enabled weather sensors. As this technology grows, more businesses and industries can access satellite data. Together, these systems will fight weather-borne catastrophes.
Healthcare
As technology makes more detailed information available, healthcare administrators move toward more data-driven decision-making. As the requirements for data rise, so does the need for IoT. The IoT will be used to receive inputs from devices patients can wear, allowing medical professionals to provide better care.
For several years, T.J. Elbert, Senior vice president and general manager of Data at Health Catalyst, has seen healthcare moving outside hospitals to center on patients. Since 2020, COVID has spurred the trend toward remote care through telehealth and remote patient monitoring. These changes will require a blend of traditional service and new data-handling capabilities. IoT is essential for the latter.
What’s next?
As the use of remote monitoring grows, a functioning IoT becomes indispensable. Satellites help provide the connectivity it needs. Discover more.
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About the Author
Cara is the marketing coordinator at X2nSat. She's a social media maverick, a content genius, and an author in her spare time. Writing and marketing are her true passions.