Financial expert Martin Lewis has issued a stark warning for smart meter users, urging the UK government to rethink its smart meter rollout. Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, has written to Labour’s Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, stressing that energy companies must focus not only on new installations but also on fixing faulty meters to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
Smart Meters Facing Performance Issues
Lewis, while supportive of smart meters for helping consumers manage energy bills, criticized the current rollout. He noted that many devices don’t work properly, leading to frustration and potential billing errors. According to government estimates, around 10% of domestic smart meters are non-functional, but Lewis suggests this figure could be as high as 19%, particularly with meters in “dumb” mode, where they lose smart functionality.
Need for Target Shift from Installation to Repairs
In his letter, Lewis proposed shifting government targets from new installations to ensuring all smart meters are working. He argued that energy firms are prioritizing installation over maintenance, leaving many meters malfunctioning. “The focus should be on ensuring functional meters,” Lewis emphasized, adding that the current approach risks damaging the reputation of smart meters.
Impact on Consumers and Future Tariffs
Smart meters, when functioning correctly, offer significant benefits, including more accurate billing and the potential for innovative tariffs that can lower costs. However, Lewis warned that energy firms are using “forceful language” to push smart meter installations, excluding customers from better deals if they refuse installation, creating resentment.
Lewis concluded by saying smart meters hold great potential for energy security and cost savings but noted the rollout has been marred by poor execution and technical issues. He called for immediate action to address these problems.
Source: mirror.co.uk
