Cities can play a significant role in achieving carbon neutrality, and according to Kim Young-rok, CEO of NineWatt, the process may be more straightforward than many assume. He emphasizes that energy efficiency doesn't always require costly, high-tech solutions; instead, the focus should be on optimizing existing buildings. NineWatt, a Korean startup founded in 2019, has developed a platform called Watti that utilizes geographic information system data and simulation tools to assess the energy efficiency of urban buildings and factories. By analyzing publicly available data on building size, usage, and energy consumption, NineWatt helps property owners identify inefficiencies and potential savings without the need for immediate hardware upgrades. Initially targeting government and industrial clients, NineWatt is now expanding its focus to small and medium-sized commercial buildings, particularly in Europe, where energy costs are significantly higher. The company has recently entered the proptech sector, combining its energy-saving technology with real estate expertise and hiring specialists to enhance its market presence. Following a successful Series A funding round in 2023, NineWatt is poised for growth in Europe, having completed a proof-of-concept project with a French real estate platform that showcased the effectiveness of its software in assessing energy renovation opportunities without on-site visits.