Smart metering cuts costs

11-11-2011

An independent review of 100 smart meter pilots and rollouts across the world suggests that smart metering installations could cut UK household electricity bills by £938m a year, says BEAMA CEO Howard Porter. They also have the potential to cut energy use by 20% by 2020.

The report demonstrated significant reductions in the amount of energy used by consumers - and when they use it – when they have smart meters in place. However, the success of pilots and roll outs and the savings that customers made varied depending on socio-economic factors, consumers’ consumption patterns, rollout programme content and structure, and what customers were using energy for.

Crucially, it found that if a smart meter rollout is to maximise energy efficiency savings to customers, consumers would need to have access to good-quality support, advice and education. There will also need to be consumer engagement programmes that segment the customer base and tailor their approach and message to the needs of different types of households.

For further information visit the BEAMA website