Established in 2006, Voltalis is the European leader in demand response. But what does that really mean?
In short: we reduce demand on the electricity grid. We don’t generate more energy—we make smarter use of what’s already there.
But if you want to understand how we do it, why it matters, and why now is the moment for real change, here’s the long answer.
A simpler way to cut demand without cutting comfort
The best place to begin is to explain a little about demand response.
We’ve already stated that we’re the European leaders in demand response. But what is it exactly?
Demand response is a strategy, usually employed by electricity networks, to reduce electricity demand and balance the grid during times of high consumption or limited supply. Instead of relying solely on expensive and polluting backup power sources like gas, demand response strategies attempt to shift energy usage during peak times, either via loadshedding or by asking the end user to make lifestyle or routine adjustments.
While this can reduce stress on the grid and lower the financial and environmental costs associated with ramping up power production, it isn’t ideal, especially if you’re the end user.
What is Demand Response?
Our approach to demand response is different.
We have pioneered what we call automated Demand Response. This involves delivering demand response technology on a scale never seen before by connecting millions of smart switches to the grid, all communicating with the grid in real-time.
Through these switches we can, with the end users’ permission, minimally modulate the energy consumption of heating and cooling appliances while communicating these small changes made to the grid as they happen.
By doing this, we:
- Optimise energy consumption for electricity users
- Reduce demand on the grid
- Decrease reliance on fossil fuels
- Lower energy bills for thousands of homes and businesses
These temperature modulations are tiny — but when amplified across the thousands of smart switches in our network, they result in big savings that matter. Once installed, Voltalis works silently in the background, so users don’t need to change behaviour or actively engage with it to make a measurable difference.
From install to impact: what this looks like in your home or business
We supply and install small, discreet switches next to heating and cooling appliances in homes and commercial buildings. These are set up by a qualified electrician and the process takes about 2 hours, depending on how many switches are required.
The entire service is completely free. Installation, configuration, and continued monitoring — all covered.
After installation, the switch will:
- Detect any imbalance on the grid in real time
- Briefly optimise the electricity consumption of the connected appliances
- Prevent grid overload and help maintain stability
You also have the option of using our MyVoltalis App — a full home energy management system that allows you to:
- Control and monitor your electricity consumption remotely
- Optimise energy usage via smartphone, desktop, or tablet
- Deactivate Voltalis switches any time
Why this matters more than ever
The UK is currently experiencing an energy crisis unlike any before.
This crisis is driven by surging wholesale gas prices, largely influenced by the war in Ukraine. The result? Significant electricity price increases, leaving millions struggling to heat and power their homes.
Energy sources are ranked based on the Merit Order. Renewables like wind and solar are prioritised due to their low fuel costs. But when renewable output dips or demand exceeds supply, the system relies on carbon-intensive sources like gas, coal, and oil — driving up costs.
Why the old approach doesn’t work anymore
Traditional demand response has limitations. Consumers are often asked to adjust their usage based on peak signals, which:
- Disrupt routines
- Require effort
- Produce inconsistent savings
That’s why we do what we do.
Our automated Demand Response approach automates the entire process and delivers it at scale. By connecting thousands of devices together, we:
- Remove the burden from the end user
- Achieve significant, reliable savings
- Strengthen the power grid
The Voltalis difference
Everyone benefits from a more stable grid and reduced emissions — without lifting a finger. It’s all about small actions at scale, delivering big results.
- Homeowners: Save on energy bills with zero behavioural change
- Businesses: Gain control and visibility over energy use
- Landlords & Property Managers: Reduce energy costs across portfolios
- Hospitality: Maintain guest comfort while cutting energy waste
- Healthcare Facilities: Preserve critical temperature stability, boost efficiency
Further reading and FAQs
Is there any cost to joining Voltalis?
No — installation, setup, and monitoring are 100% free to the user.
Can I control the system myself?
Yes, via the MyVoltalis App. You can monitor, adjust, or opt out at any time.
Will I feel any difference in comfort?
No. Our system makes tiny modulations that don’t affect indoor comfort.
Learn more here.
