The EDF Energy EcoManager spends two days in the cupboard before I admit that I'm a bit scared of getting it out of the box. How can I let a simple piece of technology intimidate me? I'm a bit of a Luddite, so even though the EcoManager is supposed to be easy to install I'm convinced it'll end in tears. To be honest, I'm also worried that once I start becoming aware of how much energy I'm using, there'll be no going back. It'll be bye-bye lovely warm baths, fully charged phone and watching TV with the cosy glow of my laptop on the sofa, and hello all-consuming guilt. I'm suffering from internal feelings of nimbyism. I want everyone to feel more responsible for the energy we use, but I don't actually want to change my lifestyle too much. Sound familiar?
Eventually I have a word with myself and liberate the EcoManager from its cupboard box. Inside is a power lead (for the controller unit), three wireless transmitter plugs, a numbering sticker set for the transmitters and a quick start-up guide. The leaflet advises me to connect the EcoManager somewhere easy to read and access, so it's impossible to ignore. I opt for a usually redundant plug socket next to the kitchen work surface. The display lights up immediately and tells me my current electricity output is 0. I feel smug, until I realise I have yet to connect it to any appliances ...
