Why smart tech Is a smart move

Nico van der Merwe, VP of Home and Distribution at Schneider Electric, shares more.

The residential sector has faced a sweeping uptake of connected technology in recent years. In the UK, 29 million households already use some form of smart technology with consumers now able to integrate heating, lighting and entertainment all within a single management system. The idea of a truly ‘smart’ home is just around the corner, and traction towards it is building.

However, despite the growth of the number of integrated solutions in the market, some electrical contractors (ECs) still remain hesitant to jump onboard the bandwagon.

Welcoming new technology

For some ECs, new products are daunting. The scope of the technology can seem intimidating, and many don’t believe they have the expertise or knowledge to implement such projects. Consumers too feel out of their depth with the prospect of smart solutions, perceiving them as an unnecessary investment which is complex and prone to faults.

There is no doubt that installing the new technology requires specialist skills. Training programmes are needed to help electrical contractors understand the new components and future potential of home automation. The positive news is that these courses exist and are being created to cause minimal disruption to a normal working schedule.

Schneider Electric’s Wiser Approved Installer training programme is one such solution. Electricians will learn about the features and benefits of the Wiser smart heating system, as well as how to install and configure it. By completing this type of training, ECs will be able to achieve efficient installations, effectively demonstrate value to customers, and give customers confidence in their ‘approved’ abilities.

We all have a reluctance to shell out for products we don’t understand. This is where ECs play a crucial role, educating homeowners and changing attitudes. Once the benefits of smart solutions are clear, ECs will have more success in winning smart project work. ECs must invest in the latest digital technologies now to lay the foundation for a new business future.

Bills and beyond: The benefits of smart home technology

When adopting smart home technology, electricians play a key role in not only installing the products but also in showcasing the benefits they can bring. These include providing convenience, reducing energy usage and ultimately cutting bills – while also meeting aesthetic requirements.

Individuals are now becoming more aware of how smart home technology can not only help them in their everyday lives but also transform the future of our planet. Smart home solutions can provide a range of opportunities to reduce energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions. With our electrical use at home increasing, implementing smart systems is a good move for the environment as they merge energy efficient appliances with real-time access to energy usage data. This allows consumers to manage their personal energy use, which is key to cutting carbon footprint.

A key element that allows smart technologies to function is the relationship between grid operators, utilities and the individual. Smart controls at home can be set up to respond to signals from energy providers, such as minimising energy use at times when the power grid is under stress from high demand. Taking small steps to implement smart technology is set to increase sustainability in the long run.

Work smarter, not harder

Electrical contractors must take advantage of the rise of smart homes. The long-term potential in the sale, installation and servicing of smart home products is only set to rise, and the benefits on offer to customers and contractors alike are instantly recognisable. Education and training is crucial to ensure that units are installed correctly, maximising the benefits for homeowners in the long run.