What if the same satellite technology used to monitor Earth from above could help us tackle real-world problems right here on the ground? For SurplusMap, joining the European Space Agency’s Business Incubator (ESA-BIC) program was nothing short of transformative. Between 2022 and 2023, at the very start of our journey, we set out to see how Earth Observation (EO) data from the Copernicus satellite program could power our core mapping technology. This experience shaped our product and redefined how we approached technology, teamwork, and scaling a business.
The challenges we faced
SurplusMap was built to solve tough problems in sustainable mobility and green infrastructure from the very start. But one question kept coming up: how do you get high-quality geospatial data in areas where open or government-funded data is limited or doesn’t exist at all? Our solution was bold—using EO data from the Sentinel family of satellites to identify features in the imagery and turn them into actionable insights for our customers.
The journey wasn’t easy. Scaling a platform capable of displaying millions of data points across Europe meant tackling two massive challenges:
Fast and cost-efficient map rendering: How could we ensure our map loaded quickly and smoothly for users without breaking the bank?
Database and machine learning (ML) integration: How could we automate the process of turning satellite data into insights for our machine learning models? We needed to build a system that was both efficient and scalable.
During its incubation with ESA-BIC, SurplusMap developed a proof-of-concept integrating satellite data with machine learning algorithms to automatically identify and map utility-scale solar plants in Northern India, providing critical insights into existing infrastructure and potential expansion for green hydrogen production.
How SurplusMap's collaboration with ESA-BIC made a difference
The ESA-BIC program was a game-changer for us at SurplusMap. Success is rarely a solo journey—it results from shared knowledge, diverse perspectives, and guidance from those who’ve walked the path before. Our collaboration with ESA-BIC helped us refine our ideas, take bold risks, and create impactful solutions:
Mentorship that mattered: ESA experts didn’t just provide technical advice—they helped us think about how to commercialize our ideas. It wasn’t just about building something remarkable; it was about creating something people and companies need and would pay for.
Room to experiment: With ESA’s support, we could take risks and learn fast. This led to our first AI product and gave us the confidence to explore complex technologies without fear of failure.
A powerful network: ESA’s connections opened doors we didn’t even know existed, introducing us to people and organizations shaping sustainability's future.
One of the highlights? Winning a prestigious award from EUSPA for a proof-of-concept developed for a Norwegian company to identify green hydrogen production sites in Northern India. It was proof that our ideas can have a real-world impact, even on a global scale.
Why this matters
SurplusMap’s work with ESA-BIC wasn’t just about technology but also impact. We’ve always aligned with ESA’s vision of applying space technology to real-world problems, especially in ways that support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Whether it’s electrifying cities, optimizing EV charging, or supporting green hydrogen, we’re in it to make a difference.
Looking ahead, we’re doubling down on initiatives that integrate EO data to push our platform even further. It’s not just about staying ahead; it’s about leading the charge in green infrastructure and mobility.
Want to learn more?
Reach out to see how SurplusMap’s platform can help you take your green infrastructure projects to the next level. Let’s build a sustainable future together!
Comments