
Camphill Communities, Ireland
Camphill Communities of Ireland - Wexford, Tipperary & Kilkenny
is part of an international movement working with people with intellectual disabilities and other kinds of special needs. They have 16 communities in the Republic of Ireland, including over 500 residents, volunteers and staff. These communities provide supported living arrangements for their residents.

The Control HQ smart controls system was first fitted in three different sites, each comprising multiple buildings, in 2016.
These sites are in Wexford, Tipperary and Kilkenny.
Camphill Communities are now looking at rolling out the Control HQ system in more of their locations across Ireland, because they are so happy with the system.
What has been installed in Camphill Communities?
Camphill Communities have installed Control HQ’s smart controls, smart radiator valves and Smart Occupancy Detection (i.e. motion sensors) in rooms throughout the buildings mentioned above.

How did you control your heating before?
Our previous heating system had a very basic level of control. It was controlled by manual timed clocks, which were hard to adjust, and in some cases wired mechanical thermostats which were basic and outdated.
What was your main consideration before purchasing the Control HQ system?
We had a few criteria that needed to be met. Most importantly, we needed an energy efficient heating system that would reduce our energy costs. We also wanted to ensure that our chosen system would qualify for the SEAI energy grant. And because Camphill Communities have locations throughout Ireland, it was hugely important that we would be able to control our heating remotely, and be able to have a high level of control and good oversight, even without attending the site.
What do you feel contributed most to your decision to buy Control HQ?
The Control HQ smart controls qualified for the SEAI energy grant, which was a crucial factor. In addition to this, the professional advice we received from an energy consultant and from Control HQ gave us assurance that this system was a good fit for us.
What do you like about the system?
Several things– the versatility of the Control HQ system, the ease of configuration and device management, and the level of control and oversight that the system gives us.
At Camphill Communities, we cater for residents with intellectual and physical disabilities. Having the Control HQ system installed allows us to meet the heating needs of our vulnerable residents, without having to disturb them in their rooms. This is because the system gives us fantastic remote oversight. We can look remotely at temperatures and zone charts in every room, as well as looking remotely at battery levels on all devices. We can also reduce the need for staff intervention. We have sites in various locations, and this system allows us to have extensive control of the heating without even having to attend site.
How much have you saved to date on your energy bills, as a result of having the Control HQ system installed?
To date, we’ve seen savings of up to 40%.
How user-friendly do you find the system?
A person with basic IT skills would find the system super easy. For a user who is not confident with technology, I would say it becomes very manageable very quickly, because they will be given guidance and tips when it is installed.
How would you rate your experience with Gaia Smart Energy, and would you recommend our company to others?
A7:
10/10 for expertise, professionalism and friendliness! Also, the knowledge that Gaia Smart Energy have of the systems is absolutely extensive and vast!
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Our Products
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The Smart Control system has saved 41% on our gas bills in the first month and 9% on our electricity”.”
The Mount Business & Conference Centre, Belfast
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“We have saved on average 45% on our gas consumption which has been vital during the current climate.”
Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, Co.Down
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“We were extremely pleased to calculate that the Genius Hub has saved us 64% off our healing costs meaning that the system has about a 2 year payback on the cost of installation.”
The Belfry Hotel, Birmingham
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I have now rolled out the Control HQ system to other HMO properties and I'm seeing the benefits in a reduction in tenant complaints and energy bills.”
Property People – Control HQ
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The Control HQ system enabled us to install smaller boilers because there was less heating demand. The system itself works very well and we would certainly recommend both the system and the company to others. Gaia were friendly, easy to work with and highly professional.”
Sienna Monastery, Drogheda
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★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I have calculated that the Control HQ System has reduced my oil consumption from 3 fills of oil a year to 2. The installation was quick and remarkably tidy, with little or no mess.”
Simon Healey, Homeowner in Belfast
Independent Reviews





