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EDF Energy Teams up With Howz on Smart Technology for Carers

The system aims to help maintain independent living for those in need of additional care or support in the home


WEBWIRE
EDF Energy and tech start-up Howz are launching a new home monitoring system to help maintain independent living.
-Credit: EDF Energy-
EDF Energy and tech start-up Howz are launching a new home monitoring system to help maintain independent living. -Credit: EDF Energy-

EDF Energy and tech start-up Howz are launching a new home monitoring system that uses energy data and connected home technology to empower the elderly, or those with additional needs, to live independently for longer.

The system, which has been developed and tested extensively with existing EDF Energy customers over the past two years,  monitors the energy usage of electrical appliances and combines this with information from a series of sensors that detect factors such as movement and temperature in a person’s home to build up a pattern of daily behaviour. Using the app, customers can check in on their family or friends and will receive alerts if the user’s normal routine is broken.

The Howz home monitoring system includes:

  • Easy set-up – all the kit comes pre-paired meaning it can be set up in just a few minutes.
  • Latest technology – including the world’s smallest smart plug and discreet motion sensors that detect occupancy, temperature, and a new door sensor with built in temperature sensor as well.
  • Alert notifications through the app and monthly reports – providing real-time alerts of sudden changes of routine through the app; long-term analysis of routine is also available via the website to highlight less obvious changes in behaviour, and the system also provides an option of sharing information gathered with family, friends or healthcare professionals. 


Howz and EDF Energy have been working closely together since Howz won EDF Energy’s start-up challenge in 2016 and subsequently worked with its internal innovation accelerator, Blue Lab. Last year the energy company trialled more than 200 of the original Howz home monitoring systems with its network of elderly customers, and worked with Howz to develop the product ahead of its latest launch.

EDF Energy and Howz will next explore how data from smart meters can be integrated into the home monitoring systems, demonstrating the wider benefits the national rollout can deliver to households across Great Britain.

Béatrice Bigois, Managing Director, Customers for EDF Energy said: “Energy and technology are a huge part of our everyday lives, from putting the kettle on in the morning to switching the television off at night. In working with Howz, we have developed a truly transformative solution that establishes users’ everyday energy routines so that their families can stay connected with them, wherever they are, and be alerted if something doesn’t seem quite right.” 

On the launch, Louise Rogerson COO at Howz and Chartered Physiotherapist said: “We pride ourselves on giving everyone back their independence, no matter their age or situation. By understanding the everyday routine, users can quickly see when a potential health concern will arise. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with EDF Energy and look forward to providing their customers with a greater awareness of their routine to give them, and their loved ones, peace of mind.”

The Howz smart home monitoring kit will cost £199, and has an additional subscription service of £6 a month with the first month free. Customers can purchase it via howz.com.

 

Notes to Editors

About Howz

Howz is a software-based product developed by Intelesant Ltd aimed at supporting people to live independently whilst letting those that matter to them know how they’re doing. Howz quickly learns an occupant’s routine though sensors and electrical readings, and alerts users of any changes. Howz aims to enable this process without being intrusive, and being easy to install and use.

 

About EDF Energy

EDF Energy is the UK’s largest producer of low-carbon electricity, meeting around one-fifth of the country’s demand and supplying millions of customers and businesses with electricity and gas.

It generates electricity with eight nuclear power stations, more than 30 wind farms, one gas and two coal power stations, as well as with combined heat and power plants.

EDF Energy is leading the UK’s nuclear renaissance with the construction of a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point C. This will provide low carbon electricity to meet 7% of UK demand. The project is already making a positive impact on the local and national economy, British industry, as well as boosting skills and education. EDF Energy also invests in a range of low carbon technologies including renewables and battery storage. It is applying research and development expertise to improve the performance of existing generation and developing the potential of new technologies.

The company provides gas and electricity for more than 5 million customer accounts and is the biggest supplier of electricity by volume in Great Britain and the largest supplier to British businesses. It offers innovative energy systems for commercial customers and digital innovation for customers at home. EDF Energy has also launched its own innovation accelerator, Blue Lab, which focuses on making customers’ lives easier.

The Better Plan is EDF Energy’s framework for being a sustainable and responsible energy business and is an integral part of EDF’s 2030 vision to be the efficient, responsible electricity company, and champion of low-carbon growth. The Better Plan is underpinned by comprehensive environmental and social programmes which have been recognised by a wide range of organisations.

EDF Energy is part of EDF Group, the world’s biggest electricity generator. In the UK, the company employs around 13,000 people at locations across England and Scotland.

To find out more about the UK’s energy challenges visit our energy future webpages.


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