EST calls for monitors to be part of cheap energy smart meter roll-out - 05/10/2009
Homeowners looking to switch energy practices could be interested by news that the Energy Saving Trust (EST) has called for monitors to be part of the upcoming smart meter roll-out.
The government plans to initiate a roll-out of smart meters to 26 million UK homes within the next few years to enable consumers to monitor their precise energy usage and compare energy practices in pursuit of cheaper rates and lower emissions, reports the BBC.
However, the EST says separate monitors displaying the information will not in fact be specifically required from energy suppliers, meaning the data may not be easy to interpret.
Ben Castle, energy-efficiency strategy manager for the EST, told the BBC: "I think having good, well designed displays accompanying smart meters is key to the objective of saving energy, saving carbon, saving money for householders."
The Department of Energy and Climate Change said a monitor should be on offer from energy companies and said more details will be provided in the next few weeks.
Energy firms are set to benefit from the smart meter roll-out as they will not have to send staff to read domestic meters.
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