A smart technology trial we have undertaken in partnership with Equans has resulted in a 44 per cent reduction in energy use in a Single Living Accommodation (SLA) block on a military base.
The trial was undertaken on the 30-bedroom SLA block at HMS Collingwood and the data was compared to an equivalent SLA block without the technology installed.
During the trial, a suite of smart technologies was used that are designed to optimise heating performance, cut energy use and reduce carbon output.
This included a Smart Thermostat, allowing occupants to adjust their room temperature, and Window Contact Sensors, which automatically turn off heating when a window is opened via Smart Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV).
The learnings from the trial, together with those from a similar one undertaken at RAF Leeming in 2024, will now be used to develop a roll-out strategy for the MOD estate.
Commodore Toby Jefferson, Deputy Director of Infrastructure at the Royal Navy, said: “This successful innovation trial forms part of a longer-term programme of activity to work closely with our industry partner to improve the Navy’s energy resilience, whilst maintaining the living environment for our people.”
Paul Roberts, our Director of Energy and Sustainability, added: “We are pleased that this trial has shown the significant energy savings and reduction of carbon emissions that can be achieved by using smart technology in Single Living Accommodation.
“Much of this type of accommodation is old and has lacked investment for a number of years and using smart technology in this way can really help the MOD save money and reach its Net Zero targets.”
Mark Warburton, DIO’s Sustainability Customer Delivery Manager, said: “The results of the smart technology trial at HMS Collingwood are extremely encouraging and contribute to Government net zero targets. We will support VIVO to roll-out this highly innovative approach at any sites that opt to invest in this new technology to reduce their energy consumption.”