Back in 2008, the UK Government began making preparations to roll-out SMART meters to 30 million homes and small businesses. The SMART meter roll-out covers around two million non-domestic sites in the UK, the majority of which are microbusinesses and small/medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In order to achieve this, in 2011 it was announced that it would be a legal obligation on energy suppliers to take “all reasonable steps” to install SMART meters into all premises by the end of 2020.
Fast forward 9 years and SMART meters have had a lot of bad press. With government deadlines being extended due to undeliverable install deadlines (they now predict it will be 2024 against the original 2020 deadline), the lack of compatibility of older SMART devices when switching suppliers and the presumed disruption it will cause on a business, there’s no wonder why businesses are becoming blind to what’s smart about getting a SMART meter. So here’s a simple run down of what, how and why a SMART meter is a smart choice for your business.
What is a SMART Meter?
A SMART meter measures energy use, in the same way as a traditional gas or electricity meter. However SMART meters are able to send that information directly to your energy supplier, automatically. No more estimated bills. No more having to read your own meter.
How do SMART Meters work?
SMART Meters work in the same way as other wireless systems like car remote keys or TVs, using radio waves. The information is sent through a wireless connection; monthly, daily or half-hourly.
(Though it is a wireless system, you don’t need Wi-Fi for it to work, and it won’t use your Wi-Fi if you do have it.)
What are the benefits for me?
SMART meters mean accurate bills. You can be confident that you’re only paying for what you’ve actually used, rather than what we think you’ve used. SMART metering paves the way towards a more energy efficient future and will enable a more efficient, greener, SMARTer energy system.
Is it compulsory?
No! Although we do recommend having a SMART meter fitted, it isn’t compulsory to do so.
Will it reduce my energy consumption and save me money?
Contrary to popular belief SMART meters alone won’t reduce your energy consumption. They will however, help you to gain much more of an understanding on your energy use and in turn help you to identify opportunities to be more energy efficient, potentially saving you money in the long run.
When can I expect to have it fitted?
Although we can’t give a specific date as of yet, we’ll be looking to begin installing SMART meters through our metering agent later this year!
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