AN eco-friendly home of the future, that can be controlled with a mobile phone, is being showcased in North Yorkshire.

Thirsk-based Automation 4 Limited, which specialises in automated control technology, and Digital Connexions, an independent home entertainment retailer and installer, have formed a partnership which will showcase a fully automated smart apartment at Digital Connexions’ Harrogate showroom.

Automation 4 Limited believes that good use of the latest technology can tackle rising fuel bills and reduce the carbon footprint through more effective control and use of energy in the home.

In the intelligent home, systems such as heating, lighting, home entertainment and security can be pre-programmed or controlled remotely from anywhere in the world.

Tim Groves, managing director of Automation 4 Limited said: “Automated home technology is here and is revolutionising the way we live, work and play.

“Quite often it’s the simple features that make the big differences.

In an automated home, an ‘All Off’ lighting control near the front door and in the master bedroom area allows the home owner to ensure all lighting throughout the house is switched off before leaving for work or retiring to bed, saving time, energy and the environment.

“The lighting can also be configured to automatically follow your movements around the home – depending on the light level and time of day.

“You can even monitor and control your automated home from your mobile phone.

“A simple message sent from your mobile can be used to turn the heating on before leaving work ensuring that the home is ready for your arrival.”

The two companies worked together on the design. The apartment uses electronic, electromechanical devices and software.

Automation 4 Limited’s clients include Dupont, Johnson and Johnson, London Transport Museum and Alton Towers.