Smart meters are the new generation of gas and electricity meters which will replace the traditional meters in our homes. Every home in England, Scotland and Wales will be offered a smart 
meter by their energy supplier, at no extra cost, between now and 2020.
These meters will enable you to see exactly how much energy you’re using, as you use it, and what it is costing in pounds and pence. They take regular readings and share these wirelessly, through a secure network, with your energy supplier. You can choose to send this information daily, weekly or even half hourly.
This means your bills will be accurate, not estimated, and you will no longer need to have manual meter readings. Along with your meter, you will receive an in-home display, a handheld digital device that shows exactly how much energy you’re using and what it is costing in near real time.
In the future, smart meters will make switching between suppliers, or between credit and prepay, quicker and easier. If you’re a prepay customer, you will also be able to top up online or via mobile phone. Energy suppliers are installing smart meters for their customers at different times. When you are eligible to get a smart meter can depend on many different factors, such as the age of your existing meter and the type of housing you live in. Your supplier will be in touch to arrange an appointment when they are ready to install yours.
For more information about smart meters and how you can get one please visit smartenergyGB.org.
