Trials have begun of a new “energy brain” that integrates technologies in peoples’ homes to make them greener, cheaper and more efficient.
The Core microcomputers developed by energy tech firm Geo were installed in two dozen houses already equipped with solar panels and electric vehicle chargers that were also fitted with smart meters and batteries to complete the set up.
The system continuously coordinates and optimises their actions to reduce consumption, save money and lower emissions, including by responding provide demand-side response to the local electricity network to free up capacity.
The Core4Grid trial, which involves EDF Energy, UK Power Networks, The Housing Association’s Charitable Trust, Cambridge Energy, Everoze and Upside Energy, kicked off in March and will run until February 2021. Over the first three months, participants saved around 3,000kWh of electricity – enough to meet the annual needs of a typical British household.
Geo chief executive Patrick Caiger-Smith said: “We’re delighted that Core4Grid is demonstrating how smart technology can reduce household energy cost and carbon footprint without households having to think about it. It means that householders, whether they’re overwhelmed by their energy bills or they love to optimise their home energy use, are all able to benefit.”
Ian Cameron, head of customer service and innovation at UK Power Networks, said: “We are incredibly excited by further developing demand side response because it’s a win for customers, a win for the environment, and a win for the network.”
“‘Homes of the future’ may sound a bit clichéd, and this project is demonstrating that the future is here already. We are developing the technology to run the network more efficiently and save money for our customers while lowering carbon emissions. That’s our mission.”
The project was awarded nearly £1 million by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy as part of the second phase of its innovation competition for domestic flexibility.
Devrim Celal, chief executive of Upside Energy, said “Trials like this with multiple partners across a range of skills prove just how innovative and forward thinking the UK energy industry is. We believe the power of new technology will play a key part in delivering the UK’s net zero ambitions and it’s projects like this, bringing together some of the brightest minds in the industry, that will accelerate that transition.”