All UK homes could have smart meters by 2020

12/05/09

Every home in the country could have smart meters by 2020, if plans by the Department of Energy and Climate Change go ahead.

Smart meters, which enable remote meter readings as well as providing a wealth of metrology information beyond what our current meters are capable of, are being recommended in the hope that they will reduce costs for energy companies which will then be passed on to the consumer. Coupled with energy use information displays, the smart meters will also enable consumers to monitor their energy usage.

The DECC estimates that a smart meter roll out could deliver benefits of up to £3.6 billion over the next 20 years.

Commenting on the plans, Energy and Climate Change secretary Ed Miliband said “The meters most of us have in our homes were designed for a different age, before climate change. Now we need to get smarter with our energy. Smart meters will empower all consumers to monitor their own energy use and make reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions as a result. Smart meters will also mean the end of inaccurate bills and estimated meter readings.”

Further reading: Renewable Energy Focus: UK homes could have smart meters by 2020