Demand response technology has been implemented in student accommodation on The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s historic Lampeter campus as part of UWTSD’s efforts to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.
One common issue in student halls is energy waste, often caused when occupants open windows instead of adjusting the heating at the source. The mix of 200-year-old and newly constructed buildings on UWTSD’s Lampeter campus presents additional challenges in decarbonising the estate.
Voltalis’ free device connects to existing electric radiators, turning them into “smart radiators” that can be managed through the My Voltalis app. This allows users to easily optimise their energy usage without the need for major infrastructure changes.
The technology also modulates the flow of electricity automatically during peak periods, reducing energy consumption by up to 15%, lowering costs, and cutting carbon emissions – all without compromising students’ comfort.
The system has now been installed in over 100 rooms at UWTSD, contributing to the university’s decarbonisation goals.
Daniel Priddy, Head of Sustainability at UWTSD, said:
“We’re set to see the benefits over the new term: with energy bills going down, progress in our decarbonisation goals and the integration working seamlessly with our other sustainability efforts and wider energy mix reduction.
“Voltalis’ technology effectively makes old traditional radiators smart without replacing the radiator system. People think installing smart tech is long, complicated and expensive, but that doesn’t have to be the case any longer. If you can do it on a campus like this, you can do it anywhere.”
Dr Randall Bowen, MD of Voltalis UK, said:
“As educational institutions face increasing pressure to achieve ambitious decarbonisation targets, we are proud to partner with UWTSD on their path to net zero. Together, we are demonstrating that innovative solutions can be adopted across universities and other public sector buildings at scale, without the need for major system overhauls. With the right technology, institutions can not only cut emissions and reduce costs but also empower students to actively contribute to a sustainable future.”
UWTSD said its partnership with Voltalis aligns with their commitment to sustainability and contributes to the Welsh Government’s goal of achieving net zero by 2050.
