VPhase has developed a new technology that is set to enhance energy efficiency in homes and SMEs as well as cut electricity bills, typically by 10% or more.
The new VPhase VX1 device delivers significant savings using smart voltage management. Working in conjunction with the consumer unit (fuse box), the VX1 reduces and regulates voltage on selected circuits that are most likely to deliver greatest savings. The result is considerable reductions to electricity costs, energy wasting and carbon emissions from generation sources.
The UK electricity distribution network operates at a nominal 230V, although in practice average voltages are more likely to range between 240V and 245V. The VPhase VX1 manages voltage to a stable level, normally 220V in the UK, regardless of the incoming supply voltage.
VPhase CEO Dr Lee Juby commented: "Our research demonstrates that higher voltage levels do not necessarily enhance performance. For example a fridge does not get colder with a higher voltage supply. In fact, high voltage levels can be known to shorten the operating life of a product, such as light bulbs. They can also produce surplus energy, which is wasted in the form of heat.
"Using the low cost VPhase VX1 to manage the voltage to a pre-determined level towards the lower parameter means that the energy consumption of many household appliances can be reduced by anything between 5% and 18%."
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 lightbulbs). 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.
Juby continued: "The principle of reducing voltage to save energy isn't a new one. The problem is it's not been cost effective on a domestic level up until now. Given the background of a long term rise in energy costs, the desire to be more energy self-sufficient and a rising awareness of the commitment to reduce carbon emissions and general waste, smart voltage management will be a key issue for all homes in the future."
VPhase has already joined forces with renowned energy companies British Gas Services and SSE in preparation for the anticipated high demand from UK customers for the VX1 smart voltage management device.