When Western Sydney University wanted to measure the success of a new light rail stop providing access to the Parramatta South Campus, they needed a people counter but didn’t want to run power or data cables to the site. Cohera-Tech’s sensors can use a customisable 4G kit to transmit the data but do need a small amount of power to facilitate that.

Cohera-Tech partnered with Western Sydney University, PowerStack and Reliant Electrical to utilise and modify a solar powered array built into a five-metre fixed pole structure. PowerStack delivers 100% off-grid solar power with no cabling or trenching. The pole generates enough solar power to its batteries to power both the sensor and the 4G modem.

Universities have long known the power of people counting to measure occupancy and space utilisation on campus. By leveraging Cohera-Tech's insights, they can work to optimise room bookings and room utilisation. In this case, they are now able to measure the ROI of a newly opened light rail stop – was it being used?, how frequently?, what times? etc – on a continuing and ongoing basis.

This data provides a powerful tool for strategic decision-making, which has become a key ingredient in Western Sydney University’s continued success in attracting students to campus.