‘Tough’ guidelines on smart meter installation

Published on 06/04/2012 01:42

The government set out “tough” guidelines yesterday for the installation of millions of smart meters to put consumers in control of information about energy use.

Ministers aim to roll out “smart” gas and electricity meters to 30 million homes and small businesses by 2019, which will provide customers with detailed information on their energy use and allow suppliers to collect readings remotely. Energy suppliers will be in charge of the mass roll-out of the meters.

Energy and climate change minister Charles Hendry said the new guidelines say there should be no selling of products or energy tariffs during visits to people’s homes to install the meters, and installers must provide advice on how to save energy as part of the visit.

Mr Hendry said: “I am determined that consumers are at the heart of this ambitious programme.”