At the xplore competition from Phoenix Contact, young talents push beyond their limits. The innovations created here don’t just pass exams—they shape careers and sometimes even change lives.
How can artificial intelligence connect education and climate protection? Dual students from BBS II Wolfsburg demonstrated this at xplore 2023 Technology Award for a sustainable world. Their “AI-Energy” project, supervised by Stefan Manemann, department head and teacher at BBS II Wolfsburg, combines education, technology, and sustainability. Using machine learning, energy monitoring, and ChatGPT, participants saved energy and gained experience that goes far beyond the competition.
Education meets innovation
For the students, xplore was the perfect stage to bridge theory and practice. In the “AI-Energy” project, they developed a heating model, energy and indoor climate monitoring, and combined everything into a smart, integrated system. ChatGPT calculates the CO₂ comparison in real time based on previous heating behavior. Each subproject was directly integrated into their training. The curriculum came to life, while personal ideas found space to grow. “Everyone was able to contribute, take responsibility, and experience how an idea becomes a real product,” says Manemann.
Education that inspires
In the xplore competition, the AI-Energy team was proud to be among the top 25 out of more than 100 international teams, and it was a great experience for everyone involved. Projects like “AI-Energy” are more than competition entries—they bring education to life. Participants learned not only about machine learning and energy monitoring, but also about teamwork, project management, and presentation skills—competencies that are invaluable in professional life.
Stefan Manemann,
department head and teacher at BBS II Wolfsburg
Sustainability as a way of life
For Stefan Manemann, sustainability is a personal mission: “I design my projects to have a multiplier effect.” The results are shared by BBS II on the open learning platform www.xplore-dna.net. In his private life, he lives what he teaches: “I’ve been a vegetarian for 35 years, I enjoy investing in sustainable technologies for our home, and I ride my e-bike to school whenever possible.” He’s already covered more than 65,000 kilometers this way. His motivation is simple: “We must shape our future together!”
What remains and what’s next
The “AI-Energy” project continued to evolve after the competition—for example, with the “Climate Cube”. This climate cube measures various parameters to assess and improve indoor climate quality. It was combined with a climate chamber to provide verifiable data. Currently, the team is working on smart control systems for entire buildings. One student even started his own business with cloud solutions for industry. Stefan Manemann recommends participating in xplore and also suggests expanding the format: “More exchange formats like coffee talks to help the community grow.”
The technology behind the “AI-Energy” project
Phoenix Contact components used:
- AXC F 3152 Controller
- AI Extension Module AXC F XT ML 1000
- EMpro
- EEM-MA770
Conclusion
The xplore competition is much more than a technical contest. It’s a driver of sustainable innovation, hands-on education, and personal growth. For participants, xplore means thinking outside the box, taking responsibility, and turning ideas into reality. The experience spans from the first project idea to teamwork and presenting in front of a jury. Often, it leads to new career paths.
xplore connects people who work together for a better future—and builds a community where technology, sustainability, and education go hand in hand.
Authors: Nicole Koch, Edmond Wempe