Is It Mandatory to Install a Smart Meter?

Is It Mandatory to Install a Smart Meter?

What is a smart meter?

Smart energy meters offer a digital way for energy consumers to measure gas and electricity measurements, 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 it sends the data they collect remotely to your energy supplier, which means that you don't have to do manual meter readings.

The advantages

- Because a meter performs accurate measurements, this means that your energy bill will also be more accurate.

- You do not have to do manual energy measurements.

- With accurate energy consumption data at hand, you can take control of your energy consumption and improve your energy efficiency and strategic energy management.

- The meter's display function gives you access to real-time updates and you know how much energy you use and when you use it.

Did you know? The Carbon Trust estimates that the average company wastes 20% of the energy it buys.

Measurement in homes and businesses leads to a better market in general, where consumers are armed with the knowledge to change suppliers and find the energy contract most suitable for their individual needs. In addition, energy suppliers will have more accurate data about the energy ecosystem as a whole, so that they can better meet the energy supply and requirements.

Why wouldn't a company want a meter to be installed?

Some companies have some reservations about the meter's rollout, but many hesitations can easily be eliminated.

- Smart meters can be hacked - your new meter is needed to meet strict government security standards, but as with any other technology, it is important to stay alert.

- It costs more money - although you may see a slight increase in your energy bill to compensate for the rollout of this new technology, there are no pre-charges for installing smart meters.

- Installing the meter will cause downtime - energy suppliers generally install meters during working hours, but some are willing to be flexible. The downtime associated with the installation of smart meters is normally around 20 minutes.

- Switch supplier - once you have installed a meter by an energy company, you can still switch suppliers if you wish. The rolled out smart meters are 'interoperable', which means that all suppliers can support them.

- Use from rented spaces - simply contact your landlord to ask if a meter is installed.

Is it mandatory to get a smart meter?

New government requirements have instructed energy companies to install meters in business premises and residential homes by 2019 - but this is only if the household or business wants a meter. The government demands that smart energy meters be offered by energy suppliers to all small businesses and households, but having a meter is not a legal requirement.

Install a new meter in 3 simple steps:

1. Ask your energy supplier or your energy broker about what is being offered.

2. Once you or your broker have chosen the right 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 bill!

The smarter way to measure your energy

Contact Smarter Business to help you find the best energy contract for your needs and ensure that your smart meter is installed effortlessly and cost-effectively. https://smarterbusiness.co.uk/