AN innovative device to monitor electricity consumption has been launched in the region.

The Electrisave is designed to encourage a reduction in usage as well as the size of the bill.

Teesside businessman John Lane, from Yarm, has bought the exclusive rights to sell the gadget after visiting a friend in Australia who was monitoring the amount of electricity he used.

The portable monitor - known as the 'Cent-a-meter' in Australia and New Zealand - allows users to manage their power usage.

The device was developed by Mr Lane's friend, Australian inventor Ross Halliwell.

Mr Lane said: "I was so impressed at how much electricity Ross was saving and how educated he and his family were becoming about their environment that I decided to try the Electrisave for myself.

"Within months, my family had completely changed their behaviour towards electricity consumption and wastage."

The Electrisave combines a clip-on sensor - which can be installed in any household or office meter box - and a portable monitor.

The monitor displays in real time how much electricity is being used - in pence per hour - and is sensitive enough to record the savings made by switching off even a 20-watt light.

Electrisave is operated in the UK by John Lane and his daughter, Melissa Hardy, who have spent the last year ensuring that the device undergoes rigorous testing to reach European and UK standards.

The monitor is available to buy online at www.electrisave.co.uk and costs £79.95.