Flexible energy experts Voltalis have partnered with YMCA Derbyshire to bring smart energy tech to supported housing
Voltalis, the European leader in demand side response (DSR), has signed a multi-year agreement with YMCA Derbyshire to drive energy efficiency and cost savings across a diverse range of residential and commercial properties. The partnership is projected to drive meaningful reductions in energy expenditure to directly benefits tenants in YMCA’s properties.
Voltalis’ free and easy-to-install technology connects to existing electric heating and cooling appliances, turning them into “smart appliances” that can be managed via Voltalis’ app. This gives users, such as YMCA Derbyshire tenants, an unprecedented level of control and insight into their energy usage, without the need for major infrastructure changes.
This strategic partnership will enable the YMCA to automatically shift energy usage during peak hours, reducing energy consumption on average by up to 15%, lowering costs, minimising energy waste and significantly reducing carbon emissions, without compromising occupants’ comfort.
The collaboration will initially be rolled out across 35 fully electric flatlets and apartments currently in YMCA Derbyshire’s ownership. Additionally, a new 60-bed all-electric supported housing scheme is set to open in early 2026, which will bring affordability and flexibility to over 95 residents at a critical time for lower-income households affected by rising energy costs. Tenants retain their usual levels of comfort whilst YMCA Derbyshire benefits from an easy-to-use interface and energy performance reports.
Dr Randall Bowen, UK Managing Director, says, “We’re proud to support YMCA Derbyshire as leads the way in modernising its energy systems as well as being committed to improving affordability for residents. This important partnership demonstrates how housing providers across the industry can embrace innovation and upgrades without comprising tenants’ comfort or their day-to-day costs.
“As YMCA Derbyshire is one of the first social housing providers in the UK to adopt this kind of grid-ready technology, we hope that its success will be a motivator for others in the industry to invest and deliver best-in-class energy savings for their tenants.
“With our fully funded installation model, those who need energy flexibility most will enjoy the benefits of DSR, namely comfort and convenience, whilst the housing providers can reinvest capital saved and continue their important work in social housing and community-building.”
Kate Gillespie, Director of Housing & Assets at YMCA Derbyshire, added “At YMCA Derbyshire, we’re committed to creating safe, supportive, and sustainable environments for our residents and the communities we serve. Partnering with Voltalis allows us to take a major step forward in reducing our carbon footprint while keeping energy costs low for those who need it most. This technology empowers us to be smarter with our energy use. We’re proud to be at the forefront of innovation and hope this also inspires others”.
With installations set to begin in Summer 2025, YMCA Derbyshire is leading the way for others in the industry, demonstrating the benefits of investing in smart energy solutions whilst maintaining affordability and comfort for tenants. YMCA Derbyshire joins a growing number of affordable providers across the UK that are using the next generation of energy technology to meet net-zero targets whilst prioritising tenant wellbeing.
contact: voltalis@thephagroup.com