NEA believes that smart metering has the potential to provide real benefits for vulnerable and low-income householders. In particular, we are supportive of the capacity of smart meters to end estimated billing, to provide greater control over personal energy use, and to make payment for ‘pay as you go’ energy much more convenient.
We know that many low-income consumers ration their energy use in the Winter due to fear of a shock bill and smart meters will help put consumers in control of the energy they are using. We also know the existing infrastructure is dated; with many consumers still reliant on coin or dial meters, some consumers not paying for their own energy but instead paying for a neighbour’s energy, and we still find meters wired up incorrectly or billing erroneously and many tenants (who pay direct to their landlord) unsure whether they are truly paying for what they use.
Fine out more about Smart Meters here
