Living lab

Scottish energy firm Biskit Controls has become the latest business to demonstrate an innovation in the Energy System Catapult’s 100-home Living Lab. Biskit has developed a patented technology called the Hydro Genie, which is designed to improve the performance of central heating systems by removing oxygen bubbles from the circulating water to improve heat transfer from the boiler to the water and from the water to radiators. Fitted alongside an existing boiler or heat pump, it is designed to reduce the amount of gas needed, lower energy bills and carbon emissions, while keeping the home warmer.

Jim Bisset, founder of Biskit Controls, said: “Hydro Genie applies fluid dynamics and Henry’s Law to wet heating systems. Assuming constant temperature, Henry’s Law predicts that dissolved gasses are released from liquids when pressure is reduced. The absence of dissolved oxygen improves the efficiency of heat transfer and retention. By removing the dissolved oxygen from the central heating’s circulation and electronically controlling the now enhanced heat, savings and reductions in CO2 emissions can be made. The Living Lab trials will provide real-world validation to reinforce the results of the testing we did with the Scottish Environmental Technology Network in conjunction with Strathclyde University. The tests showed energy and carbon savings of up to 49.8% for domestic homes and up to 39% for commercial buildings.”

The Living Lab is a unique trial facility of 100 connected homes, where innovative businesses can rapidly design, market-test and launch new energy products and services.