Energy suppliers urge government to hasten smart meter roll-out - 03/08/2009
People looking to compare energy costs using a smart meter could benefit from cheaper bills more quickly if calls are heeded to hasten a roll-out of the technology.
Over 60 per cent of homeowners are still unaware of what a smart meter is and the Energy Retail Association (Era) is keen to get the planned government roll-out moving to the benefit of both energy companies and their customers.
Smart meters enable homeowners to monitor their energy usage on a minute-by-minute basis so they can identify where savings can be made, while they allow suppliers to produce more accurate bills.
Dr Garry Felgate, chief executive of Era, told the Scotsman: "The longer we wait for a response from the government, the longer will be the delay before smart meters can be installed and customers can start saving money on their bills."
The government plans to roll-out around 46 million smart meters over the course of the next ten years.
Consumer organisation Which? has disputed the real value of smart meters and says energy companies stand to make far bigger savings than their customers.
Save up to £300 on your gas & electricity bills at energyhelpline.com
Compare prices from all energy suppliers to find your best deal