A company that has developed technology which could revolutionise the way white goods work and enable more efficient energy use has gained £900,000 of funding.

RLtec’s technology can be installed into goods such as refrigerators and kettles and detects how much electricity is available on the grid.

It then directs the device to use less electricity if there is a lack of energy available or to use more if the supply is plentiful.

The device has been tested by major manufacturers and the company now has many orders for its offering.
RLtec’s investor the Low Carbon Accelerator anticipates that companies such as this will be highly valued in the coming years as grid operators look to find ways to improve their ailing infrastructure.

There are also benefits for renewable energy providers as sources such as wind and hydro have proven to be difficult in the past as they are so unpredictable whereas RLtec’s demand response technology offers a solution.  

Dr Stephen Mahon, LCA's Investment Manager who sits on Rltec’s board, said: “The global market for demand response products is estimated at approximately $15 billion per annum.

“The growth in this market is driven by increasing electricity demand, the need to operate grids more efficiently and with greater stability when renewable energy is integrated, and a need to reduce carbon emissions and costs.

“LCA's investment will enable RLtec to deliver commercial opportunities and continue marketing in the UK, US and South Africa whilst further develop licensing opportunities in white goods and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning markets.”

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008