A multidisciplinary EPSRC project aimed at reducing household energy consumption has developed an intelligent heating-control device. The Wattbox learns householders' energy habits according to the times they use electrical appliances and hot water. With this information, Wattbox sets the thermostat to suit the householder's lifestyle while taking account of the temperature outside.

It is claimed the device may provide energy savings of up to 20 per cent. Wattbox contains a display with buttons for more or less heat when its decisions do not suit householders' needs. It also shows how much more, or less, energy is being consumed when choices are made.

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