Energy Monitoring of Assistive Technology

This is an exploratory piece of research aiming to quantify the energy consumption of assistive technology at a device level.

This research consists of:

• Survey
• Initial focus groups
• Preliminary interviews
• Energy monitoring field work
• Follow up focus groups

Read the full research report

Main findings

1. Many participants saw value in quantifying the amount of energy used at a device level. Some felt this would be beneficial on a personal level, emphasising the importance of informed choice when purchasing/choosing assistive technology.
2. Based on our research measuring the energy consumption of assistive technology, we provided initial data in this area as a basis for future research. When taken across ten participants, measuring either two or three pieces of assistive technology, the average cost per year to run the equipment was £50.88. This is an average calculation using a price estimate by the Energy Savings Trust[1] based on a standard rate in England, Scotland and Wales. Whilst the exact cost will vary depending on individual circumstances, the average calculation is not negligible and requires attention.  
3. Overall, using energy monitors felt relatively accessible for people with varying access needs. The remote-control function of the energy monitors indirectly had a particularly positive effect on the day to day lives of many of the participants when using their assistive technology.
4. Although measuring the energy consumption of assistive technology was helpful on a personal level for some participants, disabled consumers simply cannot reduce the usage of this vital equipment itself. The focus needs to be on improving the energy efficiency of these technologies as well as financial support provision. Ultimately, the running of assistive technology is vital for health, wellbeing and day to day basic human needs.
5. The majority were in agreement that further wide scale participatory research of this nature is important for:
6. Raising awareness of the extra energy incurred by disabled consumers to help advocate for grants to help with rising energy costs.
7. Having more data to compare the energy efficiency of assistive technology. This would support both the public and private sectors in providing more in depth, person-centred information to assistive technology users. Particularly when purchasing/choosing new assistive technology.

Main Recommendations

1. Provide grants to support families who rely on assistive technology.
2. Ensure information on financial support is both available and accessible. Ensure consistency with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2).
3. Ensure app development is consistent with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2).
4. Provide more assistive technology running cost information, both in the public and private sectors. This is either to inform purchases of new technologies or to support decisions when receiving new pieces of equipment.
5. Increase availability of consumer information in relation to the energy monitoring of assistive technology. Specifically, tailored as much as possible to individual access needs.
6. Consider distributing energy monitors to families with assistive technology in the home, to support them with making informed choices.
7. Conduct further research providing a large-scale comparison of the energy consumption of assistive technologies. Allowing for a detailed comparison of:

• Manufacturers
• Energy suppliers
• Renewable energy alternatives in the home. With the aim of improving the energy efficiency of assistive technology in the wider sense, including medical equipment and hardwired technologies.
• An industry standard for the energy efficiency of assistive technology.

[1]How do we calculate our energy saving data? (energysavingtrust.org.uk)

Data retrieved on 26th October 2023. Data for England, Scotland and Wales from 1st October 2023 and for Northern Ireland 1st July 2023

This research study is part of a broader RiDC research programme investigating whether disabled and older consumers can easily access and use low carbon energy products and services. The research programme Enabling Inclusive Innovation and Sustainable Choice is funded by the Energy Savings Trust under the Energy Redress Scheme Round 11 (Innovation). The programme is being led by RiDC and delivered in partnership with the Energy Systems Catapult (Living Lab).