What is a smart meter and how does it work?

How does it work?

Smart meters work by:

1. Measuring your usage - They record how much electricity and gas you use, just like traditional meters
2. Storing the data - Readings are stored in the meter
3. Sending readings automatically - The meter sends readings to your supplier via a secure wireless network (similar to a mobile phone signal)
4. Displaying information - An in-home display shows your real-time usage and costs

The meter communicates through a dedicated wireless network (called the Smart Meter Wide Area Network or SMWAN) that's separate from your home Wi-Fi.

What are the benefits?

Smart meters offer several advantages:

Accurate billing:

• No more estimated bills - your supplier gets actual readings automatically
• You only pay for what you actually use

Real-time information:

• See how much energy you're using right now
• Understand which appliances use the most energy
• Track your spending in pounds and pence

Easier switching:

• When you switch suppliers, your new supplier can read your meter remotely
• No need to wait for meter readings when switching

Better energy management:

• Identify energy-hungry appliances
• See the impact of turning things off
• Make informed decisions about your energy use

Do I have to get one?

Smart meters are being rolled out across the UK, and suppliers are required to offer them to customers. However:

• You don't legally have to accept one
• You can ask your supplier to install one
• Installation is free (the cost is covered by all energy customers through their bills)

Most people find smart meters helpful, but if you prefer to keep your traditional meter, you can usually do so.

What happens during installation?

When you get a smart meter installed:

1. Your supplier arranges an appointment - An engineer will visit your home
2. The old meter is replaced - This usually takes about an hour
3. Your supply is briefly interrupted - You'll be without power/gas for a few minutes
4. The engineer sets up the in-home display - They'll show you how to use it
5. The meter starts sending readings - It begins working automatically

The installation is free, and you should be able to choose a convenient time for the engineer to visit.

What is the in-home display?

The in-home display (IHD) is a small screen that shows:

• Your current energy usage (in kWh and pounds)
• Your daily, weekly, and monthly usage
• Your current tariff information
• Carbon emissions from your energy use

You can place it anywhere in your home (it's wireless) to keep an eye on your usage. It helps you see the immediate impact of using appliances and can encourage you to reduce waste.

Will it work if I switch suppliers?

Most smart meters are "SMETS2" (second generation) and will work with any supplier. However:

• Older "SMETS1" meters may lose smart functionality when you switch
• Your new supplier can usually upgrade a SMETS1 meter to work with them
• The government is working to make all smart meters compatible with all suppliers

If you're unsure, ask your supplier what type of smart meter they'll install.

Are there any downsides?

Some people have concerns about:

• Privacy - Your usage data is shared with your supplier, but it's protected by data protection laws
• Reliability - Some people report issues with the in-home display, but the meter itself usually works fine
• Compatibility - Older SMETS1 meters may have issues when switching suppliers (though this is being resolved)

Overall, most people find the benefits outweigh any concerns.

Summary

• Smart meters automatically send your energy readings to your supplier
• They come with an in-home display showing real-time usage and costs
• Benefits include accurate billing, real-time information, and easier supplier switching
• Installation is free and takes about an hour
• Most modern smart meters (SMETS2) work with any supplier
• You don't have to get one, but most people find them helpful for managing energy use