Smart Energy GB response to University of Sussex research on smart meters

A Smart Energy GB spokesperson said: “This research contains serious inaccuracies and omissions which paint a misleading picture of the smart meter rollout and the benefits to consumers. 

“Independent surveys of tens of thousands of consumers each year show that Smart Energy GB’s campaign has made a significant impact on awareness of smart meters, their benefits and how to get one installed. Nearly all - 97% - of the population of Great Britain are aware of smart meters, with more than three quarters of people who have a smart meter saying they would recommend one to others. And many more would like to get their smart meter installed soon, with 49% of those who haven’t yet upgraded - or more than 20million people - saying they would like to get one in the next six months. It’s also important to note that, contrary to the research, you do not need internet access in your home to have a smart meter.  

“Millions of people around the country are already using smart meters to bring their energy bills down. They are fitted at no additional cost, exactly as our old analogue meters were. The government’s most recent cost benefit analysis shows that by 2020 the average household will see annual savings on their energy bills of around £11 increasing to around £47 by 2030 thanks to the smart meter rollout. The government and Ofgem have said that they expect energy suppliers to pass any savings onto consumers.

"We’re also disappointed that the University of Sussex did not contact Smart Energy GB prior to publishing their research as we would have been happy to assist and fact check their report.”

-ENDS- 

About Smart Energy GB

Smart Energy GB is the voice of the smart meter rollout. It’s our task to help everyone in Great Britain understand smart meters, the national rollout and how to use their new meters to get their gas and electricity under control. Our national campaign is reaching households and microbusinesses in England, Scotland and Wales. 

About smart meters and the rollout

Smart meters replace the traditional meters we currently have in our homes. They enable accurate bills, near real time information on energy use in pounds and pence, and greater control over the way we buy and use energy. The smart meter rollout is an essential technology upgrade, unprecedented in its scale, to improve Great Britain’s energy infrastructure.

There are already 7.7 million smart meters installed in homes and microbusinesses across Great Britain. Every household in England, Scotland and Wales will be offered one at no additional cost. Contact your energy supplier today about installing your smart meter.

Smart Energy GB media contacts

For more information including interview requests, case studies of smart meter users, infographics, photography and video content please contact the Smart Energy GB media team:

Stephen Shawcross: [email protected]; 0773 965 9895

Oliver Finegold: [email protected]; 0203 019 1054 / 07934 297 698