Volt Watch is a 12-month project led by Techdotrom with support from the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) and funded by UK Power Networks (UKPN). It will develop a portable, low-cost domestic voltage monitor that provides near real-time visibility of low-voltage conditions. The aim is faster, less labour-intensive investigation of voltage complaints which will enable evidence based decisions for the network.
Challenge
As the UK works towards net zero by 2050, more low carbon technologies (LCTs) are connecting to the low-voltage network, including electric vehicle (EV) chargers and heat pumps. This is increasing customer enquiries about voltage levels outside the regulatory limit of 230 V +10%/-6%.
UK Power Networks’ current approach is to send a qualified inspector to install a voltage recorder in the customer’s home for around two weeks. The device is then collected and the data analysed. This process is both resource-heavy and reactive.
Who is the Innovator?
Techdotrom is led by Carl Bartlett; he specialises in commercial solar PV design, installation, fault diagnosis, plus battery storage and monitoring systems. His experience also covers internet of things (IoT) and embedded systems, network connectivity, electronics, precision measurement, programming and automation.
What’s Next?
Volt Watch will develop a portable, easy-to-use voltage monitor that can capture high-resolution voltage data and report issues proactively. The design supports both online and offline operation, using 4G to send data to a remote server with fallback to SD card logging where signal coverage is poor.
The device is intended to be compact and easily installable, without network shutdowns or complex tools. The project will take the solution from technology readiness level (TRL) 3 to TRL 8, including prototypes, field testing and a pre-production batch designed for low unit cost at scale.