Is It Compulsory to Install a Smart Meter?
What is a smart meter?
Smart energy meters provide a digital way for energy consumers to measure gas and electricity readings, which are sent directly to energy suppliers. They serve as a replacement for your existing gas and electricity meters.
The difference between a traditional meter and a smart meter is that the latter send the data they collect to your energy supplier remotely, which means you don't need to take manual meter readings.
The benefits
- Because a meter takes accurate readings, this means that your energy bills will be more accurate too.
- You won't need to take manual energy readings.
- Having accurate energy consumption data on hand allows you to take control of your energy use and improve your energy efficiency and strategic energy management.
- With the meter's display feature, you'll have access to real-time updates and be aware of how much energy you're using and when you're using it.
Did you know? The Carbon Trust estimates that the average business wastes 20% of the energy it buys.
Metering in homes and businesses leads to a better market in general, arming consumers with the knowledge to switch suppliers and find the energy contract most suited to their individual needs. In addition, energy suppliers will have more accurate data about the energy ecosystem as a whole, allowing them to better meet energy supply and demands.
Why wouldn't a business want a meter installed?
Some businesses may have some reservations about the meter rollout, but many of thee hesitations can be easily allayed.
- Smart meters can be hacked - your new meter is required to meet strict Government security standards, but, as with any technology, it's important to remain -vigilant.
- It will cost more money - although you may see a slight increase in your energy bills to compensate for the rollout of this new technology, there are no upfront costs for smart meter installation.
- Installing the meter will cause downtime - energy suppliers will generally install meters during working hours, but some are willing to be flexible. The downtime associated with smart meter installation is normally around 20 minutes.
- Switching suppliers - once you have a meter installed by an energy company, you can still switch suppliers at a later stage if you'd like to. The smart meters rolled out are 'interoperable', which means that all suppliers will be able to support them.
- Operate from rented premises - simply get in touch with your landlord to ask about having a meter installed.
Is it compulsory to get a smart meter?
New government requirements have commissioned energy companies to install meters in business premises and domestic homes by 2019 - but this is only if the household or business wants a meter. The government requires that smart meters are offered by energy suppliers to all small businesses and homes, but having a meter is not a legal requirement.
How to get a new meter installed in 3 simple steps:
1. Ask your energy supplier or your energy broker about what's on offer.
2. Once you or your broker have decided on the appropriate solution, you can arrange a suitable time and date with your energy supplier to have the meter installed.
3. Start taking control of your energy bills!
Gloss