Time to Get Smart
Published on 01 August 2019 12:48 PM
You have probably heard something about smart meters - some good things, some not-so-good and perhaps some things that are plain confusing!
Age UK Notts, Age UK Leicester Shire and Rutland, and Age UK Derbyshire have partnered up to work with Smart Energy GB to make sure that older people across the East Midlands have access to the truth and facts about smart meters and are able to make an informed decision about whether to choose to have one fitted.
Smart Energy GB is the campaign for a smarter Britain. It's their task to help everyone in Great Britain understand smart meters, the national rollout and how to use their new meters to be cleaner and greener with their energy use.
Between now and the end of October 2019, Age UK Notts will be engaging with groups of older people across the county to make them aware of the benefits of this new technology, answer their questions and hopefully, dispel some of the myths that have grown around smart meters.
Thinking about Smart Meters?
Here are some details to help you decide.
What are they?
A smart meter can be fitted at no extra cost and replaces your current meter. This is coupled with a handheld in-home display unit that shows you your home energy consumption.
Can everyone get one?
We’re all entitled to a smart meter as part of the rollout. Some of us will have to wait longer than others to get our new meter, but you can ask your energy supplier directly to see if yours can be fitted now. How soon you can get your smart meter depends on your energy supplier, where you live, your current meter type and what kind of home you live in.
Do I have to get one?
The government requires energy suppliers to offer smart meters to all homes and small businesses across Great Britain by 2020.
What are the benefits?
- No more estimated bills: Your remote, wireless in-home display unit shows you what gas and electric you have used and how much this is costing, in pounds and pence.
- Reduce energy bills: Knowing how much you have spent can help with budgeting and to save energy on items that are using electricity and don’t need to be on, for example a TV on standby, lights on in a room when no one is using it.
- No more meter reads: Going down into the cellar or squeezing yourself into cupboards to get the meter reading will be a thing of the past, as the readings are automatic. This means you’ll l only be paying for electricity you are using, rather than those annoying estimated bills that can sometimes be way off.
- Greener energy supply: Smart meters will play a key role in the creation of a new smart grid. Our energy supply could be greener because the smart grid will be able to supply more reliable, efficient and low-carbon energy to households and help us all to manage our valuable resources more efficiently. Smart meters can’t solve climate change on their own but with the smarter, more energy efficient grid they help to create, they’re a start.
How do I get one now?
Simply call 0300 131 7777** or simply type in the search engine on your PC, ‘I want a smart meter’. Eligibility may vary. Available in England, Scotland and Wales by 2020.
‘Calls to this number from UK landlines and mobiles are charged at the standard rate (i.e. same rate as calls to 01 and 02 numbers), and may be included in your usual call allowance. Please check with your provider.
You can get more information about smart meters and how to get one fitted on the Smart Energy G.B. website: smartenergyGB.org