[ Spotlight: Wiring solutions ]
Siemens’ Synco living home automation and control system
Other electrical equipment manufacturers are also reporting
more interest in smart wiring devices from contractors. There are a number of factors at play. Yes, equipment costs have tumbled. Rising energy costs have also seen homeowners more receptive to paying a bit more for a solution that allows them to better control their energy costs. Also, more and more electrical contractors are taking part in the training that allows them to acquire the necessary installation and programming skills necessary for this kind of technology. ‘While there is still a significant requirement and demand for
standard wiring devices, the integration of control functions is starting to gather momentum,’ comments Michael Bancroft, category manager at Schneider Electric. ‘Initially, a key focus will be energy-saving benefits, providing the contractor with added-value opportunities by capitalising on the growing consumer demand for greener alternatives.’
High end Some still see the sector, at the higher end at least, as far removed from mainstream electrical contracting. ‘We see this as a specialist integrator product,’ says Jim Currie, head of product management and R&D at Siemens LV division.
It is expected that the smart home systems market will increase by 30 per cent between 2010 and 2013
‘While some elements of control, such as occupancy sensors, are within the scope of the electrical contractor, we haven’t seen massive penetration into the mass market of high-end systems.’ As the market has seen with renewables, it is the early
adopters that are currently reaping the rewards. ‘Although more contractors are embracing energy management practices, there is room for further development,’ says Bancroft. ‘Contractors must begin to position themselves as energy advisers – from design and specification through to delivery and on-going maintenance. In this way, they can ensure their business is best placed to maximise the opportunities available by delivering their customers a building for the future while, in turn, future-proofing their own business.’ Richard Hayward admits the industry needs to do more to
create awareness of the possibilities. ‘One of the challenges we face is to convince the market that such systems are the way forward. The drivers are there. Putting an intelligent infrastructure into the home appeals to the technical guys who love their gadgets; it appeals to the middle-aged family wanting to save money on their energy and it appeals to
November 2011 ECA Today 27
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