Napier University is providing academic support to Lothian Renewables under the Business Innovation Exchange to develop “smart” technology to utilise the on site use of domestic PV production. The project is scheduled to conclude with a functioning device in early 2013.
In many households the peak production of PV electricity is when the householders are out at work which results in much of this “free” electricity being exported back to the grid. The research project is aimed at tackling this situation and allowing the householder to use this production in ways which will reduce their energy purchases at other times of the day. Whilst there are a number of gadgets on the market, Lothian Renewables dont believe that any fully fulfill the requirement to maximise the benefit to households who have invested in PV technology- watch this space!