Matt Cody

• Comment on: Efficiency key to 80% carbon reduction

  Matt Cody's comment | 02/08/2010 10:54 am

  Hi Andy / ILAG,
  
  I've checked with the tech guys and they've advised that because the VPhase is fitted next to the consumer unit, it would more than likely require one unit per flat.
  
  Larger scale voltage optimisation is possible though - and is used in industry by companies such as Tesco and Asda. Companies like Power Perfector and Powerstar offer these products, but they're many more times expensive than VPhase units and considerably larger too. With a large block of flats they may prove cost effective though; it'd be advisable to have a site survey carried out to assess the viability of these.
  
  The VPhase itself is low cost though and we're constantly working to drive the costs down even further. We're in the process of completing trials so that Ofgem can calculate the lifetime CO2 savings of the product - which will allow the device to qualify for CERT and as a result, the unit can be subsidised, thus making it even more affordable.
  
  For social housing providers that conduct rewires on a proportion of their housing stock each year, buying bulk units would afford volume discounts too - so in terms of affordability, it then becomes very cost effective, lowering costs of installation (the electrician is already onsite) and overall purchase price.
  
  Does that answer your question? If there's anything else you need or want to know... just ask.
  
  Thanks,
  
  Matt

• Comment on: Efficiency key to 80% carbon reduction

  Matt Cody's comment | 30/07/2010 9:55 am

  Hi ILAG,
  
  I actually do work for a domestic voltage optimisation company called VPhase - but didn't want to engage in a sales pitch, which is why I didn't mention that previously!
  
  I believe the technology represents a significant means for saving on energy bills and reducing CO2 emissions yet people just don't know about it... yet.
  
  I'm working to raise the profile of voltage optimisation generally, because once the general loft and cavity wall insulation is in place across housing stock, there are few cost-effective alternative technologies available. Voltage optimisation is actually not too dissimilar to loft insulation in terms of cost and payback periods.
  
  I hope that answers your question though?

• Comment on: Efficiency key to 80% carbon reduction

  Matt Cody's comment | 28/07/2010 9:11 am

  I don't understand why there is such a huge emphasis on smart meters as a means to address energy efficiency targets. The meters still require an individual or household to adapt and change their lifestyle, and become more aware of their energy usage.
  
  Voltage Optimisation on the other hand can be fitted to every house and will automatically lower and regulate the incoming voltage, preventing energy waste, typically saving around 10% off annual electricity bills and reducing CO2 emissions in the process - all without requiring any change in lifestyle or energy use behaviour.
  
  Big businesses and organisations - including the DECC - use voltage optimisation in their commercial premises, yet the technology is rarely considered within the domestic environment. In terms of 'easy wins', surely this has to be a better option than smart meters?!

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