Smart plugs that monitor energy use

Scientists from the UK University of Essex have designed an electric plug that monitors the energy usage of the appliance connected to it.

The "˜intelligent' plug is intended to be indistinguishable from today's electric plugs, but will show consumers how much each appliance is costing them to use. They can also connect to a central system in the home for consolidated consumption information.

Inside each smart plug will be a power meter, micro-controller and wireless transceiver that will relay information to the central point. Prototypes are expected to be put through testing later this year.

"People will be able to know how much power every single device uses. You will be able to see if a machine, such as a fridge, has failed, or if something has been left on, which should not have been. It empowers the individual homeowner to make a real carbon difference," said Dr Woods, one of the plug designers.

"This plug represents a completely new way to quantify energy consumption. The method of information delivery may turn the tide on the apathy associated with leaving on the TV and lights."