LISTEN: Special Lightbulb To Combat Power Cuts

Power cut black outs could soon be a thing of the past thanks to a special lightbulb.

SSE is piloting a bulb which stays on for 3 hours without electricity.

It aims to reduce stress power cuts cause for vulnerable people.

iViTi Lighting Ltd is behind the technology currently being trialled by the energy firm.

It uses energy efficient LED technology, and can tell the difference between switching the lights off and a power cut.

Turning the light bulb on charges the internal battery through the mains electricity.

During a power cut, the bulb automatically switches to use the battery, providing up to three hours of power.

Once mains power is back on the battery starts to recharge itself.

The bulbs are not currently available to buy but following a successful trial they will be made available.

Reporter Derek Ferguson speaks with Waseem Zakir from SSE about the lightbulb...

Julie Walker, SSEPD’s Social Obligations Manager, is keen to see how the bulb could help customers on the network’s Priority Service Register:

“We invest millions of pounds each year making our electricity network more resilient during adverse weather.

"Despite being more than 99% reliable, there is always a chance of a power cut during such weather conditions.

“For some of our customers a power cut can be distressing and this bulb will help to reduce their anxiety.

"During the trial we will work with welfare organisations to make sure customers are looked after.

"And this is just one of the ways we are trying to help our vulnerable customers to receive the best care possible when they need it most.”

Trefor Jones, Director at iViTi Lighting Limited said: “We are delighted that our iViTi ON light bulb is being piloted by Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution.

“The iViTi ON provides light in a home for three hours during a power cut.

"These three hours do not have to be continuous as the bulb can be switched on and off, as required.

"Customers on SSEPD’s Priority Service Register, who have the ON bulbs will discover that the need for torches, matches or candles will be minimised, reducing the possibility of falls and fires.

“If there’s a power cut, the iViTi ON allows for safe evacuation of the home during an emergency and will assist the emergency services to navigate the home.”