Shell UK has launched a smart hybrid domestic heating system.
The “B-Snug” is a system which uses technology to manage the combination of an air source heat pump and a traditional boiler.
Using PassivSystem’s technology platform, B Snug can continuously monitor the temperature in the home and analyse weather forecasts to automatically switch between two heat sources: a Samsung Air Source Heat Pump and the customer’s existing boiler.
The system’s controls use machine learning to select the most appropriate heat source to deliver warmth, favouring the use of the heat pump when possible.
PassivSystems says the system will reduce heating bills by providing a majority of the heat through the air source heat pump.
It is currently aimed at homes that use oil or LPG for heating. The companies say that by providing homeowners with a way to use electricity to heat their homes, the system enables consumers to reduce their carbon emissions.
Shell, which owns supplier Shell Energy Retail, said while the system is currently a PassivSystems-led offer for now, there may be opportunities to look at rolling out joint offers with other Shell companies in the future.