subject: The Ultimate In Carbon Reducing & Energy Efficient Devices [print this page] The low-cost VPhase unit, which has been developed by VPhase plc, part of Energetix Group, in conjunction with Liverpool University, is now in mass production for homeowners and SMEs and is being supported by a nationwide consumer awareness campaign.
VPhase has an agreement with Scottish & Southern Energy and Ofgem for a Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) Demonstration Action that will determine the lifetime carbon dioxide savings of VPhase. VPhase is also working with British Gas on routes to market the product through British Gas's existing supply channels.
Devices that exhibit energy savings when voltages are reduced include refrigeration appliances, washing machines, dish washers, tumble dryers, vacuum cleaners, other devices using motors, air-conditioning units, central heating pumps and lighting (including energy saving light bulbs). Heating devices such as ovens and electric showers wouldn't show any savings but these high current appliances are usually connected through other stand alone circuits.
Mr Hutchings says: "We are extremely pleased that we were given the opportunity to brief Mr Miliband on the potential for Smart Voltage Management and how it can be used in conjunction with smart metering to reduce the nation's energy consumption and carbon emissions.
VPhase CEO Dr. Lee Juby comments: "Many electrical appliances will work more efficiently and use less electricity at a much lower voltage. If every household in the UK used voltage optimisation, a typical home could save carbon emissions of 270kg every year - the equivalent of taking 2.3 million cars off the road. "Based on our back to back tests, on appliances such as fridges and freezers a VPhase unit can deliver a massive saving of 17%, incandescent light bulbs can show savings of 15%, and even energy saving light bulbs can save 10% with VPhase. Once installed it requires no maintenance. It's simply a matter of fit, forget and save money instantly."
Extensive testing of the technology has already been carried out and the product will be more widely available throughout the UK early 2010, followed soon by the rest of Europe and North America.
