Metro de Madrid, one of the largest and busiest underground transport systems in Europe, launched an initiative to enhance environmental control in selected stations as part of its commitment to public health, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality (IAQ).
Driven by growing concerns around sustainability, user wellbeing, and compliance with post-COVID standards, the operator required a solution capable of monitoring and visualizing key pollutants and environmental conditions in real time.
The project was led by Aire Limpio, an integrator specialized in indoor environmental quality solutions, using advanced monitoring technology provided by inBiot.
To meet the specific demands of the metro environment, the project deployed a robust IAQ monitoring system using MICA WELL NB-IoT devices and the My inBiot platform. A total of 14 units were installed across selected stations. This model was chosen for its high precision, long-term autonomy, and ability to transmit real-time data via NB-IoT networks, crucial for underground areas without stable WiFi or Ethernet.
- Cellular NB-IoT communication ensured stable, secure data transmission without relying on local infrastructure, even in subterranean settings.
- My inBiot platform allowed remote monitoring, multi-user access, and role-based permissions.
- Custom dashboards and alerts : real-time data, historical insights, and automated alerts supported agile response and operational control.
- Automated reporting : exportable reports enabled fast IAQ analysis and streamlined documentation.
The main challenge was deploying a system in underground stations with limited network coverage and restricted access. NB-IoT connectivity enabled continuous data flow without additional infrastructure. Sensor placement was also critical, requiring tailored positioning based on occupancy density and varying environmental conditions across platforms, passageways, and lobbies.
- Reliable IAQ monitoring in complex environments : continuous 24/7 data collection enabled the detection of pollutant peaks during rush hours, even in underground areas with limited network access.
- Uninterrupted data flow in critical zones : thanks to NB-IoT connectivity, all stations maintained stable, real-time transmission without signal loss, ensuring consistent coverage at high-traffic points.
- Operational visibility and responsiveness : maintenance teams gained greater situational awareness through centralized dashboards and alerts, enabling faster, data-driven decision-making.
- Improved user experience : enhanced perception of air quality and comfort contributed to a safer and more pleasant environment for both passengers and metro staff.
- Evidence-based ventilation management : IAQ data helped validate the performance of existing ventilation systems and supported more efficient, demand-based adjustments.
- Long-term scalability and audit readiness : maintenance-free devices with over 10 years of lifespan allowed easy expansion to other stations, while supporting future audits and certification initiatives.
14
devices (
,
)
API licences
My inBiot Business licences
Custom Business Intelligence dashboard
Temperature, Humidity, CO2, TVOC, PM2.5, PM10, PM4.0, PM1.0, Formaldehyde, Ozone, NO2, CO
Madrid, Spain
2025
