The Energy Tree app analyses data from the smart power grid to discover households’ energy trends and encourages users to consume less energy through personalised feedback and guidance.

“The Energy Tree combines behavioural science and gamification with data analytics to engage and motivate households,” said a statement from the app developers Greenely.

“By entering their energy consumption data into the user-friendly and accessible app consumers can realise a potential 10% reduction in energy use.”

When asked about the possibility of a UK rollout, a Greenely spokesperson said: "We have spoken to utilities in UK and it is an interesting market but not before 2016/2017. But we definitely think it is an interesting market due to the smart metering infrastructure."

Greenely has received funding and support from KIC InnoEnergy, and partnered with SBAB Bank to roll out the app.

“Consumers are more aware of how the energy industry operates than ever before, and it is clear that they want more control of their energy use,” said Kenneth Johansson, CEO of KIC InnoEnergy Sweden.

“The Energy Tree gives Sweden’s consumers the power to have a positive impact on their energy use, allowing them to reduce their carbon footprint and their utility bill.”

The app will be available for all SBAB’s home mortgage customers by the end of year.

Greeneley CEO Tanmoy Bari said: “Consumers and companies are ready to invest in sustainability. The support of SBAB will allow us to reach a huge number of households, and give them the data they need to reduce their energy usage.”

Closer to home, British Gas customers in Bristol are also trialling a free smartphone energy app that could replace smart meters.

As edie’s sister title Utility Week reported, customers using the app are given a live feed on energy use, including how much energy appliances cost to run, a predicted daily energy spend and the total of how much energy is being used by day, week or month.

As part of the national rollout of the trial later this year, British Gas customers upgrading to a smart meter will be offered the choice of either the app or the in-home display.

Mai Linh