Smart meters

What are they?
Smart meters are basically ordinary meters but with a mobile phone built in. Instead of having to send someone out to read the dials, the meter sends the reading to a central computer system via SMS, the same technology as text messages. The meter can also store information about when gas or electricity is used in real time.

This technology has two big benefits.

First of all, you can measure how much electricity you are using throughout the day. This is the first step in actually reducing your bills.
Second of all, it means that we don’t have to estimate your bills any more. By getting regular meter readings, we can make sure you are paying the right amount.

How do I get one?
In May 2009, the government announced its intention to roll out smart meters to all UK homes. That means about 23 million gas meters and 27 million electricity meters. How this will work in practice is still being finalised and, until this is decided, smart meters will be more expensive than normal meters. We hope to be able to offer all our customers smart meters during 2010.