Peterborough’s largest social housing landlord has begun to test internet of things (IoT) technology in monitoring health, safety and environmental factors in its properties.
Cross Key Homes is working with full fibre infrastructure provider CityFibre and IoT specialist Comms365 on a trial at three locations to monitor humidity, condensation and wasted heat.
They are also using noise sensors to monitor activity an any vacant properties and parking sensors to alert staff of any illegal parking in front of emergency exits.
Data from the sensors is being transmitted to antennas connected to CityFibre’s network.
Claire Higgins, chief executive of Cross Key Homes, said: "At the beginning of the trial we could never have anticipated just how many uses and benefits the IoT technology would uncover. We have been able to identify new ways to ensure our homes are comfortable, safe and green by addressing condensation, security, fire risk and energy waste, which in turn has led to significant cost and efficiency savings.
“The potential for this technology to transform operations for other housing providers and different public services is immense.
Possible extensions
A spokesperson told UKAuthority that the organisation is gradually testing the possibilities of the technology and that the trials could be extended onto other sites and to new functions.
Mike van Bunnens, managing director at Comms365, said full fibre is the only form of digital infrastructure capable of delivering the speed, capacity, reliability and symmetry required.
CityFibre said it is currently investing over £30 million in a full fibre network around Peterborough through a strategic partnership with Vodafone. It will involve almost every home and business in the city getting access to gigabit connectivity.
Image: Aidan Dickson, planning manager at Cross Keys Homes and Rebecca Stephens, CityFibre city manager, examine an IoT sensor
