Smart Meters: Free, accurate, and easy energy tracking

What are smart meters?

Smart meters are new electricity and gas meters being installed in homes that measure how much energy you use and automatically send this to your energy supplier.

As well as the meters, a separate, small electronic display (usually called the in-home display) is also provided which makes it easy to see how much electricity and/or gas you are using and what it costs.

The meter sends energy usage information automatically to your energy supplier so your energy bill is always accurate.

How much does a smart meter cost?

They are free to install in both homes and businesses by the energy companies.

What are the benefits of using a smart meter?

• Accurate bills: because your supplier gets your readings automatically you are only charged for the energy you have used. No more sending in meter readings!
• Lower energy consumption: smart meters won’t automatically save you money but, the in-home display helps you keep track of how much energy you are using. You can set a budget, and it will display how much you’ve spent each day.
• Access to money saving initiatives: most suppliers can offer cheaper tariffs to their smart meter customers.

Renting?

If you rent your home you can still have a smart meter installed but best to check with your landlord first.