A brand new low cost technology has been launched which can give householders immediate and significant savings on their electricity bills and a reduction in carbon emissions, without any change to their lifestyle.

The VPhase unit has been developed by VPhase plc, part of Energetix Group, in conjunction with Liverpool University. It uses voltage optimisation technology which simply manages incoming voltage into the home and keeps it at a constant lower level saving you money. Although voltage optimisation has been available to commercial users for some years, this is the first time that this technology is available to homeowners and small businesses.

The power distribution network has traditionally operated at 240V but is often be higher. Data collected by VPhase currently shows an average across the UK of 247V. However, many electrical appliances will work more efficiently and use less electricity at a much lower voltage, normally 220V. H&D Magazine have been told that if every household in the UK used voltage optimisation to reduce electricity consumption, a typical home could save carbon emissions of 270kg every year, the equivalent of taking 2.3 million cars off the road.

Dr Lee Juby, the C.E.O of VPhase says it's easy to fit and the evindence is out there, "The beauty of a VPhase unit is that householders can continue to enjoy all the benefits of a growing range of home appliances, without having to change their behaviour and still be kind to the environment and their pocket. Based on our back to back tests, on appliances such as fridges and freezers a VPhase unit can deliver a massive saving of 17%, light bulbs can show savings of 15%, and even energy saving light bulbs can save an additional 10% with VPhase. VPhase can also save energy on a wide range of appliances across your whole home from a single unit that is easily fitted next to your fuse box by a qualified electrician. Once installed it requires no maintenance. It’s simply a matter of fit, forget and save money instantly."

The VPhase unit is fitted next to a fuse box and operates on socket outlets and lighting circuits. The amount of energy saved will vary depending on the incoming voltage and type of appliances in the house. The unit is designed and manufactured within the UK and must be installed by a qualified electrician.

The VPhase unit costs £250 + VAT. For more information or to order, visit www.vphase.com or call 0845 003 8235.

H&D Magazine asked whether this was all too good to be true? The answer we got was "So far, the results we have are from internal testings. However, the device is now in SSE customer homes for field trials with Ofgem which will provide an indication of CO2 lifetime saving that will determine the level of CERT credit. VPhase is also carrying out further back to back trials of appliances and plan to seek independent verification of these results."

AT the time of posting, we couldn't get an answer on how many units have been installed domestically so far and couldn't get hold of any customers we could quote happy or otherwise. However, the product has only just gone into mass production a matter of weeks ago, but we're keeping an eye out on the MyLocalElectrician's online magazine to see how the "local electricians" get on!