Energy management made easy

Energy consumption is a major issue. Homes and cars increasingly run entirely on electricity. In addition, energy is generated with solar panels. The question: what is the best and most efficient way to manage energy at home? The Niko Home Control automation system makes this clear. We are talking about smart technology, combined with the characteristic Niko design.

"We have been supplying home automation solutions for the home in the Netherlands and Belgium since 1997," says marketer Jurren Zomer. "With Niko Home Control, we can now link to the smart meter. With a P1 cable, we measure the entire energy management. We can also make that connection to measure the yield of the solar panels. In addition, there are our smart sockets, which register exactly what a specific device consumes."

Insight leads to savings

Summer explains that Niko Home Control helps with monitoring and by providing insight. "The first step to efficient energy management is knowing how much electricity you generate or consume. Then this data is used to optimize energy efficiency. Unfortunately, it is often the case that only 30% of solar energy is used. This can be done differently! For example, by running appliances at the most favorable times, when there is (solar) energy left over." 

Through the central smart hub and app, the system is controlled. "In addition, it is easy to set routines, such as the heating and lights going on in the morning and off in the evening. Lights can also be automatically set to dark when a sensor registers that you are leaving home. Offices, schools and cafes also use the system, to automate things like lighting control." 

Offering homeowners something extra

To really know where you can save money, Summer says it is necessary to know exactly how much energy a device uses. Niko Home Control's connected outlets and smart plugs provide this information. This allows users to see when excessive or abnormal consumption is occurring. They can also detect potential problems. 

"Our products are suitable for both existing and new construction. An example is the Salmon Harbour Tower in Rotterdam. Here a number of penthouses are equipped with the Home Control system. Architects choose our solutions because we naturally finish the switching material beautifully. Together with contractor Vorm, we provide entire residential neighborhoods with our products. Homeowners can then choose a basic package or a complete solution throughout the house. With this, the contractor offers something extra. Insulation is a non-visible way to save energy, but with this system you give consumers something they can enjoy every day." 

Starting November 21, the Niko Home Control starter kit will be available at various online stores. "This includes not only the wireless smart hub, but also a P1 cable for connection to the smart energy meter, which gives the customer immediate insight into his total consumption. This kit is easy to expand with all the other solutions in the Niko Home Control range: smart plugs, single or double connected switches and connected motor control."