What are they? Should you get one?
A smart meter is a self-reading piece of technology that comes with an in-home display,showing you exactly how much energy you’re using in pounds and pence. It is the next generation of a gas and electricity meter. The government’s ambition is for everyone in England, Scotland and Wales to be offered a smart meter at no upfront cost in the next few years.
Are you looking to reduce what you use and save on your bills? The meters will help you figure out where and when you’re using the most energy, so you can cut back in that particular area.
- for gas and one for electric – the meter will read for electricity and gas, and will go where your existing meter is. They will send your usage information automatically to the suppliers.
- Because your meter will send your direct supplier the electricity and gas you are using, you should only pay for what you use.
- It’s a small wireless gadget that monitors the energy you are using within your home, and shows you how much it costs, in near real time. It can be placed anywhere in the home.
- Say goodbye to complicated meter readings, hunting in that dark cupboard.
What will the smart meter display?
- How much energy was used in the last hour, week and month
- Whether your electricity use is high, medium or low.
- If you have a pre-pay meter it will show you – how much credit you have left, how much emergency credit you have, and if your credit’s getting low.
The wireless system
Smart meters use their own secure, wireless network using radio waves, just like your mobile phone or TV. They don’t use the internet to send or receive data, so you don’t need an internet connection for it to work. Strict new regulations and codes of practice are in place to keep your smart meter data private, secure and safe.
Am I eligible?
Your supplier is the main decider on if you are eligible. The smart meters are being rolled out in each area one by one, so you may be in luck. Check if they are available in your area with your supplier.
How do I get a smart meter?
If your home is eligible and you have made the decision to get a smart meter…
- Wait until it’s your turn
- Try and jump the queue by asking your supplier if they are fitting them in your area.
- Register your interest, and hopefully this will prompt your supplier when the time’s right that you are interested for a smart meter to be installed.
Contact DSB today for more info on a smart meter.