Energy: Intelligent power saver

A New Zealand company has developed a new type of switch that it says can substantially reduce the amount of power used in a home.

The IntelliSwitch automatically turns electrical appliances off after a pre-set time and replaces normal light switches and power sockets.

It can be set to switch off either 15, 30, 60, 90 or 180 minutes after an appliance is last used and can be used in bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and living areas.

Managing director Michael Wake said the product, made in Auckland, could save $100 a year in power on heated towel rails alone.