11 May 2011

Energy Smart Meters Forecast to Sweep the Country

Energy experts predict there will be three million smart meters in British homes by 2014, as households focus on ways to reduce their utility bills.

Energy experts predict there will be three million smart meters in British homes by 2014, as households focus on ways to reduce their utility bills.

This prediction by Consumer Focus is estimated as such after the announcement by E.ON of their plans to install one million devices in homes in the next three years.

These smart meters are aimed at customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills, as they can identify the way a consumer uses energy for them to better be able to find a deal that suits their specific needs.

Consumer Focus states consumers should be given ongoing advice and support on how to use their meter to cut their energy bills, particularly low income and vulnerable families.

"Some customers will welcome the chance to get a smart meter early to get accurate bills and help them save on their energy,” said Zoe McLeod, Consumer Focus energy expert.

"However, full consumer protections aren't in place yet so it is very important that E.ON and other suppliers installing smart meters go the extra mile now to make sure consumers have a positive experience.”

E.ON last week announced their investment of up to £150 million in the Solar Exchange plan too. This aims to help residents work towards being more energy efficient, generate renewable power at home, and cut their bills, hopefully by up to £180 annually.

Incorrect Energy Bills

A smart meter could also prevent the occurrence of households receiving incorrect bills, as previous research by uSwitch showed 27 percent of British household have received an inaccurate bill over the last two years.

It is not usually a one off occurrence either, as more than one in ten says they have received an inaccurate bill more than one, leaving 40 percent of households unexpectedly owing money to their supplier.

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