Smart Meters ? Worth the hassle ?

[stu007]

I have had a Smart Meter installed for over 3 yrs now, bear in mind I am Disabled and do find it very advantages for myself.

 

1. Not having to send meter readings. (note: the supplier does still come out to do manual readings approx every 2 yrs)

 

2. No estimated bills.

 

3. The Smart Meter itself I can actually view my account i.e. daily usage, costs meter readings, tarriff etc. from the device itself.

 

Disadvantages

 

1. When you have a smart meter installed depending on your provider you may like mine does have to stay with that suppliers for a certain period of time before you can change supplier. (when mine was installed it was 2 yrs from installation before you could change supplier)

 

2. My smart meter installed at time does lose its wifi connection but only for a very short period approx 10 - 15 mins. its the small plugin device that links to the smart meter that loses connection

 

(note: the smart meter I have installed is in 2 part, part one in the smart meter itself installed and linked to the gas & electric meters and part 2 is a very small plug in device that you can plug in anywhere in your property that links to the smart meter itself where you can view your account info)

 

[stu007]

I can see what you are saying  but it should not make a difference at all if you have a smart meter and have passed there grace period and want to change supplier.

 

Irrespective of supplier if your smart meter is say not compatible they cannot refuse to take you on (except if their is a debt issue with previous supplier) as they are required to then change those non-compatible smart meters to one that are and cannot charge for that to happen.

 

People also need to be aware is it actually the 'Smart Meter' that may be failing or is it the 'Small Linked Plugin' device that could be failing. (see my previous post).

 

[stu007]

Just thought I would add some link

 

Smart Meter Act 2018: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/14/contents/enacted

 

Transition to Smart Meters: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/gas/retail-market/metering/transition-smart-meters

 

Smart Meters: A Guide to Your Rights: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/consumer-guide-understanding-energy-meters-ofgem/smart-meters-guide-your-rights

 

Energy Supply Disconnection and Prepayment Meter Rules: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/who-contact-if-its-difficult-paying-energy-bills/energy-supply-disconnection-and-prepayment-meter-rules

 

Consumer Vulnerability Strategy: Debt and Disconnection (until 2025): https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/about-us/how-we-work/working-consumers/protecting-and-empowering-consumers-vulnerable-situations/consumer-vulnerability-strategy/consumer-vulnerability-strategy-debt-and-disconnection

 

Priority Services Register for people in need: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/extra-help-energy-services/priority-services-register-people-need

 

[stu007]

I have also added Priority Services Register link to my list in post#13