More information
Description
ALFACON S.A. is a consulting firm, active in system integration, software development, ERP – CRM technology integration and networking.
ALFACON S.A. is introducing the patented Caloric Smart Thermostat (CST), a user-friendly device that provides real-time heating consumption data. This device allows users to manage their heating costs by adjusting the desired temperature. The CST, unlike other thermostats, boasts three unique features: Heating Power Adjustment (HPA), Heating Problem Detection (HPD), and Heating Bill Awareness (HBA). These features enable users to manage and anticipate their heating bills effectively. The CST operates on the principle that once the desired indoor temperature is achieved, only small amounts of energy are needed to maintain it. It regulates not only the indoor temperature but also the radiator temperature, potentially reducing heating costs by up to 60%. Furthermore, it identifies and reports heating or insulation issues, prompting users to take corrective measures.
The project will result in the development and commercialization of the CALORIC Smart Thermostat (CST), and as a result enhance the promoters competitiveness. This advancement will create 8 jobs and significantly reduce fuel consumption in the buildings where they are installed.
Summary of project results
The residential and commercial building sector, which predominantly relies on fossil fuel combustion for heating, poses significant environmental challenges due to greenhouse gas emissions and smoke pollution. These sectors are the largest energy consumers in the EU, with 75% of buildings being energy inefficient. To align with the EU`s climate and energy objectives, the heating and cooling sector must reduce its energy consumption and fossil fuel usage. Energy efficiency measures, such as advanced construction methods, high-performance insulation, upgrading heating and cooling equipment, and using intelligent thermostats, can contribute to two-thirds of the needed CO2 emissions reductions. As part of Europe’s clean energy transition, buildings are shifting from mere energy consumers to actively controlling and optimizing the indoor environment, thereby contributing to the flexibility of the energy system.
The proposed solution features 3 innovative elements which distinguishes it from other similar products in the market:
- The heating power adjustment (it controls not only the indoor temperature but also the heating power of the radiators, giving the space the exact energy it needs without overheating it);
- The heating problem detection (it detects malfunction in the heating system or inadequate insulation of the building);
- The heating bill awareness (it gives a clear indication to the users of the heating consumption and the ability to anticipate the heating bill and adjust it to the available budget.
The focus has mostly been on R&D activities, primarily centered around the development of various components and software. This included the advancement of cloud services, mobile/web applications, CST software, and electronic designs. Additionally, prototypes for sensors were initiated, with consumables being procured to support this phase.
More prototypes than expected were manufactured.
The promoter manufactured 44 prototype smart thermostats (more than double than initially expected) which were installed in prospective users houses for testing the interface.
With regard to the commercialisation of the thermostat, the promoter will offer the thermostat through their eshop. They will also use distributors such as Wall + Volt (they have 60 shops around Greece) through their new division Smartwatt. The project will lead to cheaper heating bills for households and more effective heating system, and as a result a reduction of CO2 and energy consumption.
The CALORIC solution enabled ALFACON S.A to enter the renewable energy market and increase its profitability, as well as its know-how. Three new permanent members of staff were also hired as a direct result of the project implementation.