Daily Archives: April 24, 2023

Green Energy: A Sustainable Way Forward

In recent years, people worldwide have become increasingly concerned about the impact of human activities on the environment. One of the most pressing issues facing us today is transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Green energy, generated from natural and renewable resources, offers an environmentally sustainable way forward.

What is Green Energy?

Green energy is one of the most thrown-about buzzwords in recent history. From introducing the concept in school lessons to becoming one of the main topics at the COP26 summit, our green energy providers have become consumer’s not-so-secret weapons against climate change.

With 137 countries pledging to reach net-zero emissions, more than 40 countries vowed to “phase down” coal. Although many countries have made policy commitments, only the UK and 11 others have passed legislation on net zero goals. 

Green energy is generated from natural and renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, and biomass. Unlike fossil fuels, which are non-renewable and contribute to climate change, green energy is sustainable and has little to no adverse effect on the environment.

Live Global Historic Emission Calculator

The energy sector is the main contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG), which as we know fuels the climate change we’re experiencing more and more each year.

Only 10 countries account for about 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while the 100 lowest emitters only add about 3%.

And while we’re not writing this with the intention to finger-point, it’s important that we, as energy consumers, know the implications of our energy use and how crucial switching to green energy providers is.

The live calculator created by Climate Watch shows the historic emission by sector and region. Go ahead and check how it’s looking in your area. ⬇️

How to get clean energy?

We’ve established (with data!) that energy-related industries that generate power have the highest emissions. But where does that leave you as a consumer?

What is the first step to take from a consumer’s point of view? Of course, changing your energy habits and leaving a more waste-free approach is always sensible. And there are plenty of resources available scattered across the internet on how to save on your electric bill every month.

The first step might be easier than a change in habit which can take months to achieve. Start easy, and switch your energy provider to a clean energy one. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you.

TOP 10 UK Green Energy Providers

The UK is home to one of the most progressive green energy providers in the world, with costs at a fraction of the price you’d be getting in other parts of the world. Without much further ado, here are the top clean energy providers in the UK.

1. British Gas

British Gas is one of the largest green energy providers in the UK, offering renewable energy solutions to homes and businesses across the country. Their portfolio includes a range of products such as solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass boilers. They also offer energy-efficient products and services to help customers reduce their energy consumption.

2. E.ON

E.ON is one of the largest green energy providers in the world, and they have a strong commitment to sustainability. Their renewable energy offerings include wind and solar power, and they also offer smart home technology to help customers reduce their energy consumption.

3. OVO Energy

OVO Energy – OVO Energy is a green energy company that offers 100% renewable electricity and green gas. They are dedicated to making renewable energy accessible and affordable to all, and they offer a range of innovative services like EV charging and energy storage.

4. Utilita

Utilita is one of the green energy providers that focus on affordable renewable energy solutions for households across the UK. Their portfolio includes a range of green energy tariffs, which offer fixed prices for a set period of time, and their smart meters allow customers to monitor their energy usage in real-time. Utilita also offers a range of energy-efficient products and services to help customers reduce their energy consumption.

5. Scottish Power

ScottishPower is a green energy company that generates electricity from wind farms and hydroelectric plants. They also offer carbon-neutral gas and are committed to investing in research and development to advance renewable energy technology.

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6. Octopus Energy

Octopus Energy is a fast-growing green energy company that provides 100% renewable electricity. They are known for their competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and innovative smart energy solutions.

7. Shell Energy

Shell Energy, formerly known as First Utility, is a green energy provider that offers 100% renewable electricity and gas. They offer smart home technology, electric vehicle tariffs, and affordable solar panel installations.

8. EDF Energy

EDF Energy is a major energy supplier in the UK, and they have pledged to become carbon-neutral by 2050. They generate electricity from a mix of renewable and traditional sources, and they offer a range of smart energy solutions to help customers reduce their carbon footprint.

9. Utility Warehouse

Utility Warehouse is a green energy provider that offers a range of renewable energy solutions, including solar panels and wind turbines, to homes and businesses across the UK. Their tariffs are competitively priced, and they offer a range of energy-efficient products and services to help customers reduce their energy consumption.

10. SSE

SSE – One of the largest energy suppliers in the UK, SSE generates electricity from a mix of renewable sources including wind and hydroelectric. They are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainable living.

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Over to you

The world is moving towards green energy, which is the need of the hour. By adopting green energy, we can protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for future generations. Not only does it bring about ecological benefits, but it also contributes positively to our economic growth.

Green energy is a fantastic alternative to traditional sources of energy. Renewable energy sources like solar energy are free from carbon emissions, easily accessible, and increasingly affordable. Why not switch today?

TOP 10 Renewable Energy Suppliers in the UK

1. British Gas is one of the largest renewable energy providers in the UK, with a range of products such as solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass boilers. They also offer energy-efficient products and services to help customers reduce their energy consumption.

2. Utilita‘s offer includes a range of green energy tariffs, which offer fixed prices for a set period of time, and their smart meters allow customers to monitor their energy usage in real-time.

3. Scottish Power is a renewable energy supplier that provides 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a range of smart energy solutions and offer competitive rates.

4. E.ON is a renewable energy provider that offers a range of renewable energy solutions, including solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage. They also have a range of flexible tariffs and smart energy solutions.

5. OVO Energy is a renewable energy provider that offers 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a range of flexible tariffs and smart energy solutions.

6. Octopus Energy is a renewable energy provider that offers 100% green electricity and carbon-offset gas to its customers. They also have a range of flexible tariffs and smart energy solutions. energy projects.

7. Green Energy UK is a renewable energy supplier that offers 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a unique pricing model that ensures their prices are always competitive.

8. Good Energy is a renewable energy supplier that offers 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a community-focused approach and support local renewable energy projects.

9. Ecotricity is a renewable energy supplier that provides 100% green electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a unique pricing model that ensures their prices are always competitive.

10. Co-op Energy is a renewable energy supplier that provides 100% renewable electricity and carbon-neutral gas to its customers. They also have a community-focused approach and support local renewable energy projects.

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How much renewable energy does the UK use

Generation of electricity from renewable sources in the UK from 2010-2021

According to the Office for National Statistics, wind power was the largest contributor to renewable energy generation, accounting for 21.5% of total electricity generation during this period. Solar power also made a significant contribution, with a 6.2% share of total generation.

The UK has set a target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and our renewable energy suppliers will play a crucial role in achieving this goal.

In addition to wind and solar power, the UK is also investing in other renewable energy sources such as hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy.

How much of UK energy is renewable at the moment

According to 2022 was a “year unlike any other” for the energy sector, with the UK producing a record quantity of energy from renewable sources.

What percentage of UK energy is renewable? Researchers discovered that last year, wind, biomass, and hydropower made up 40% of the UK’s energy.

The majority of the UK’s renewable energy comes from electricity generation, with wind power being the largest contributor.

wind mills, energy, clouds-6928590.jpg

According to the UK government’s Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, renewable energy accounted for 11.1% of the UK’s total energy consumption in 2020. This represents an increase from 10.2% in 2019 and reflects the country’s transition towards more sustainable energy sources.

Does renewable energy cost more

It’s essential to remember that even though at first look, renewable energy plans seem more pricey, they’re in fact cheaper than standard and other fixed contracts.

“This has been a year like no other for the energy industry. The public is feeling the pain of high gas prices on their energy bills even though renewables are providing the grid with more cheap, green electricity than ever before.”

Dr Iain Staffell of the UK Energy Research Centre

Why are renewable energy prices going up

There are several factors contributing to the increase in renewable energy prices in recent years:

1. The rising demand for renewable energy

electricity, electric generator, solar energy-3287817.jpg

As more countries set ambitious targets to reduce their carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources, the demand for renewable energy has grown significantly.

This increased demand has put upward pressure on prices, particularly for technologies like solar panels and batteries that are key components of renewable energy systems.

Additionally, supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the production and delivery of key components, further contributing to cost increases.

2. The rising cost of raw materials

Rare metals used in the manufacturing of renewable energy systems.

Many renewable energy technologies require rare earth metals and other materials that are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive.

For example, the price of lithium, a key component of batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, has risen significantly due to increasing demand and limited supply. These rising costs are being passed on to consumers, contributing to the overall increase in renewable energy prices.

3. The rising cost of grid integration

Another factor driving up renewable energy prices is the cost of grid integration. Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar can be intermittent, meaning that they do not always produce power when it is needed.

To ensure a reliable and stable supply of electricity, renewable energy systems often require additional infrastructure to manage fluctuations in supply and demand.

This can add high costs to renewable energy projects, particularly in areas where the grid infrastructure is less developed. As more renewable energy is added to the grid, these integration costs can increase.

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Back to you

Despite these challenges, renewable energy suppliers remain committed to reducing costs and increasing efficiency, which will be key to ensuring continued growth and adoption of renewable energy technologies in the years to come.

10 Reasons to Switch Broadband Providers & How to Switch

With so much of our lives taking place online, it’s crucial to have a broadband provider that can keep up with our demands. Sometimes this isn’t the case, and we have to deal with terrible internet speeds, frozen Zoom screens and lost data. Time to stop this nonsense and switch broadband – it’ll feel good.

Changing broadband providers may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By taking the time to research and compare options, you can find a provider that meets your needs and provides a better experience than your current provider.

In this article, we’ll discuss the most common reasons why customers choose to switch internet providers, why now is a good time to switch broadband, how to switch, and we’ll try to help you find the best internet deals for your needs.

Your sign to switch broadband now

Without much further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 reasons to switch broadband and see how many of these you deal with on a regular, if not daily basis.

  1. Slow internet speed
  2. Poor reliability
  3. High prices
  4. Poor customer service
  5. Limited bandwidth
  6. Limited data usage
  7. Low to no perks
  8. Poor coverage
  9. Unreasonable contract terms
  10. Outdated technologies

1. Slow internet speed

Slow internet speed animation

This one’s probably the number one pain point for users all across Europe (except Monaco and Romania – apparently, they have the best internet speeds over there).

But why is this such a spread issue? Let’s break down the most common factors that can contribute to slow internet speeds:

  • Bandwidth limitations: The amount of bandwidth available to you can impact your internet speed. If you are sharing a network with other users or devices, and they are using up a lot of bandwidth, this can cause your internet to slow down.
  • Network congestion: Heavy internet traffic, especially during peak usage hours, can cause network congestion. This means that the data you are trying to access or download competes with other user’s data for the same limited network resources, resulting in slower speeds.
  • Distance from the router: The further you are from your Wi-Fi router, the weaker the signal strength will be. This can lead to slower internet speeds or even dropouts.
  • Interference: Interference from other devices, such as microwaves or cordless phones, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal and cause slower internet speeds.
  • Outdated hardware: If your modem, router, or computer is outdated, this can contribute to slower internet speeds. Upgrading your hardware can help improve your internet speeds.
  • Internet Service Provider (ISP) issues: If your ISP is experiencing technical issues or is having network problems, this can cause slower internet speeds for all users on the network.

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What internet speed do I need?

The internet speed you need depends on the types of online activities you engage in and the number of devices that will be using your internet connection. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

What internet speed do I need?
What internet speed do I need? Find out if you’re using the right broadband package for your needs.

It’s important to note that internet speed can be affected by factors like the type of connection you have, the quality of your modem and router, and network congestion in your area. It’s always a good idea to test your internet speed regularly to ensure you’re getting the speed you’re paying for.

[shortcode for testing broadband speed]

2. Poor reliability

Frequent outages or slow connection speeds can be a sign of poor reliability. It may be time to switch broadband provider if you can’t rely on your internet connection. But first, let’s explore the reasons behind your current internet provider’s poor reliability so you can avoid this scenario in the future:

  • Your current internet provider has network issues – hardware failures, software bugs, or configuration errors can cause these issues.
  • Your current internet provider experiences frequent fibre optic cable damage – the internet relies on a complex network of fibre optic cables to transmit data worldwide. These cables can be damaged by construction work, weather events, or other factors, leading to internet outages.
  • Your current internet provider experiences frequent power outages – the internet also relies on a reliable electricity supply to power its infrastructure. If there is a power outage, the equipment that powers the internet may be affected, leading to an outage.
  • Human error – mistakes made by network engineers, such as misconfigurations or accidental cable cuts, can also cause internet outages.
  • Internet congestion – during periods of high demand, such as when a large event occurs or during peak hours, the internet can become congested and slow down or become unavailable in some areas.

3. High prices

If we learnt anything from our experience as a price comparison platform, there is always a better deal for broadband.

Not all broadband deals are expensive, and prices can vary depending on a range of factors, such as location, provider, and the specific package you choose. Shopping around and comparing deals from different providers can help you find a more affordable option.

4. Poor customer service

This one’s downright embarrassing that still happens, but chances are you felt it on your own skin. Regardless if it happened only once or it’s a common occurrence, it’s time to move on.

Poor customer service can be frustrating, time-consuming, and unhelpful, leaving customers feeling angry and ignored. And it doesn’t end there, unfortunately.

A good example of poor customer service is also the long wait times for installation or repairs: when customers sign up for a new broadband service or need repairs, they may need to wait several days or weeks for an appointment. This can be inconvenient, especially if you work from home or rely on the internet for other important tasks.

5. Limited bandwidth

If you frequently use the internet for streaming, gaming, or other data-heavy activities, you may need a provider that offers higher bandwidth. See the internet speed table from number 1 for your reference.

6. Limited data-usage

This one’s a no-brainer: if your current provider imposes limits on the amount of data you can use each month, you may want to switch to a provider that offers unlimited data.

7. Low to no perks

Some providers offer additional benefits such as free access to streaming services, free routers or other perks that may be more valuable to you than your current provider’s offerings. Here are the most common perks you get when switch broadband provider:

  1. Discounts or promotional offers  ➡ Check latest internet offers here
  2. Cashback or gift cards  ➡ Check latest internet cashback here
  3. Faster internet speeds  ➡ Check latest internet deals here
  4. Freebies or extras  ➡ Check latest internet freebies here
  5. Loyalty programs  ➡ Check latest internet loyalty programs here

8. Poor coverage

If your current provider doesn’t offer coverage in your area, or if coverage is poor, you may be able to find a better provider with better coverage in your area.

9. Unreasonable contract terms

If you’re unhappy with the terms of your current broadband contract, such as long contract lengths or hidden fees, you may want to switch to a provider that offers better contract terms.

10. Outdated technologies

If your current provider doesn’t offer the latest technology, such as fibre-optic broadband, you may be missing out on faster speeds and more reliable service.

Am I paying too much for broadband?

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Why switch now?

Are you tired of slow internet speeds, constant buffering, and dropped connections? Are you fed up with your current broadband provider’s poor customer service and hidden fees? It’s time to switch broadband provider!

A new provider can offer faster speeds, more reliable connections, and better customer service to help you avoid those common pain points that you’ve been experiencing.

Moreover, switching providers can also save you money. Many providers offer promotions and discounts for new customers, allowing you to save on your monthly bill. This means you can get better service while paying less than you currently pay.

How to switch broadband provider

  • Check your current contract to see if you are still under a fixed-term agreement. If you are, you may need to pay an early termination fee if you switch before the contract ends.
  • Compare broadband deals for the features that are important for you, like internet speeds, data allowances, prices, perks, etc.
  • Contact your new provider to sign up and set an installation date. Alternatively, you can use a switching platform like SWICC to do it for you.
  • Contact your old provider and inform them that you want to cancel your service. They may try to persuade you to stay, so be prepared to negotiate or stick to your decision.
  • Return any equipment, such as routers and modems.
  • Check your final bill to ensure that you have not been charged for any services beyond the date you switched to your new provider.

Or skip some of the steps & let us do it for you…

We can help you switch broadband provider in a matter of a few clicks with a step-by-step guided service, or better yet, just leave it with us. All you have to do is fill out the form below, and one of our knowledgeable operators will contact you with the next steps. Hassle-free and absolutely free!

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A short guide to full-fibre broadband

Full-fibre broadband, also known as fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), is the latest and most advanced form of internet connection. It uses fibre-optic cables to provide faster and more reliable internet speeds compared to traditional copper-based connections.

Here is a short guide based on the most frequent questions to help you understand full-fibre:

What is full-fibre broadband?

Full-fibre broadband is an internet connection that uses fibre-optic cables to provide faster and more reliable internet speeds. Unlike traditional internet connections, which use copper-based cables, full-fibre uses a direct fibre-optic connection from the service provider to your premises.

How does full-fibre broadband work?

Full-fibre broadband works by using fibre-optic cables to transmit data as light signals. These signals travel along the cable at incredible speeds, providing faster and more reliable internet speeds compared to traditional copper-based connections.

What are the benefits of full-fibre?

Full fibre broadband

Here are five main benefits of using full-fibre:

  • Faster download and upload speeds

One of the biggest benefits of full-fibre is its speed. Full-fibre can provide download speeds of up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit per second) and upload speeds of up to 220 Mbps (Megabits per second). This is much faster than the speeds offered by traditional copper-based connections, which typically provide download speeds of around 50 Mbps.

  • More reliable connection

Full-fibre provides a more reliable connection than traditional copper-based connections. Since the signal is transmitted using light rather than electrical signals, there is less interference and signal degradation, resulting in a more stable and reliable connection. This is especially important for businesses that operate on a consistent internet connection.

  • Lower latency, providing a better gaming and streaming experience

Full-fibre broadband has lower latency compared to traditional broadband connections. Latency is the time it takes for data to travel from your device to the internet and back. With full-fibre, latency is typically lower than 20ms, making it ideal for online gaming and streaming, where a fast and responsive connection is essential.

  • The ability to support multiple devices simultaneously

This means that everyone in the household or business can enjoy fast and reliable internet connection without experiencing any lags or buffering. This feature is particularly useful for households or businesses with multiple users who require a consistent and fast internet connection.

  • Future-proof, with the ability to support emerging technologies such as 5G, virtual reality and augmented reality

These technologies require high-speed and reliable internet connectivity to function correctly. Full-fibre provides faster internet speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections compared to traditional connections, making it an ideal option to support these technologies.

How do I get full-fibre broadband?

You can check if full-fibre broadband is available in your area by contacting your service provider or by using an online postcode checker. You can contact your service provider to sign up for a plan that suits your needs if it’s available.

Full fibre broadband providers

  1. BT
  2. Virgin Media
  3. CityFibre
  4. TalkTalk
  5. Hyperoptic
  6. Gigaclear
  7. Zen Internet
  8. Vodafone
  9. Plusnet
  10. Sky Broadband

How much does full-fibre broadband cost?

The cost depends on the service provider and the plan you choose. However, it is generally more expensive than traditional broadband connections due to the higher speeds and reliability it provides.

When is full fibre coming to my area?

You can check with your local internet service provider (ISP) to find out if they offer full-fibre broadband in your area or if there are any plans to roll it out soon. Alternatively, you can check online broadband availability maps, which may provide information on the availability in your area.

Keep in mind that the rollout of full-fibre broadband is an ongoing process, and it may take some time for it to become available in all areas.

Full fibre in my area

With full-fibre broadband, you can enjoy faster download and upload speeds, a more reliable connection, and lower latency. This means you can browse, stream, and download content seamlessly and without any buffering. You can also enjoy a better online gaming experience with faster and more responsive connections.

We encourage you to switch to our full-fibre broadband package to experience these benefits first-hand. Check below if it’s available in your area and start swiccin’.

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Everything You Need to Know About Energy Smart Meters in the UK

Energy smart meters are the latest technology in energy monitoring. Learn how they work, their benefits, and how to install one in the UK. These meters have been designed to help households keep track of their energy usage, reduce their carbon footprint, and ultimately save money.

This article will cover everything you need to know about energy smart meters, including installation, how to read them, benefits and troubleshooting. Before we move on to the big stuff, let’s see what all the fuss is about.

What is a smart meter?

A smart energy meter is a device that records your energy usage in half-hourly intervals. Having one in your house is convenient automatically as it automatically sends this information to your energy supplier, so you don’t have to give them meter readings anymore. You can say goodbye to climbing up ladders with a torch to do your meter readings.

How do smart meters send readings?

How do smart meters send readings and are they accurate? Smart meters send readings using a dedicated secure wireless network and they don’t rely on your wifi at all. In fact, you don’t even need internet in your home to use a smart meter at all.

As for accuracy, the smart meter sends readings to your energy supplier at least once a day. This means that your supplier always has up-to-date information about your energy usage, making them more accurate than manual readings.

If you’d like to know more about the techy bits, check out this easy-to-read leaflet that illustrates the main parts of smart metering systems, courtesy of The Department of Energy and Climate Change.

Home electric panel

Are smart meters secure?

Having a new tech gadget in your home can feel daunting. Questions such as: are smart meters secure or do smart meters pose a risk to security are justified and it’s good to be addressed rather sooner than later.

In a nutshell: your energy supplier can only use this data to provide you with accurate bills and to help you to save energy. They cannot share this data with anyone else without your consent.

The Smart Meters Network is designed to be very reliable and to protect your data by minimising the impact of a vulnerability in a meter.

The smart meter sends readings to the Data and Communications Company (DCC), a government-owned company that is responsible for managing the smart meter network.

“Each message received by a meter is authenticated via a simple cryptographic algorithm where the meters all have unique authentication keys. In order to start attacking the meter, you have to get past this authenticity check, and the only entity that can generate the authentication codes is either the DCC or the meter itself.”

– Dr. Ian Levy, The National Cyber Security Centre

What are the benefits of having a smart meter?

  • You’ll get more accurate bills

Smart meters send your energy usage data to your supplier automatically, so you’ll no longer have to give them meter readings. This means that your bills will be based on your actual usage, rather than estimations.

  • You can see how much energy you’re using

You can use your smart meter’s in-home display (IHD) to see how much energy you’re using in real time. This can help you identify areas where you can save energy.

  • You can set up alerts

You can set up alerts on your smart meter to let you know when you’re using a lot of energy, or when you’re about to reach your energy limit. This can help you to avoid expensive energy bills.

  • You can switch energy suppliers more easily

Smart meters make it easier to switch energy suppliers, as your new supplier can access your energy usage data directly from your meter.

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  • Reduced carbon footprint

By tracking your energy usage, you’ll identify key areas where you can reduce your energy consumption and ultimately reduce your carbon footprint.

How do I get a smart meter?

Getting started with a smart meter is pretty straightforward and usually takes around two weeks. Here are the steps to getting a smart meter up and running.

  • Book your appointment: You can book online or request a smart meter via telephone. Some providers usually release new slots on Mondays (see Octopus Energy), so make sure you set a reminder.
  • Initial consultation: You must give your supplier basic information, such as address and meter number. Please note that you will never be asked to provide sensitive information such as card details.
  • Home visit: An engineer will remove your old meter and install the new smart meter in its place. The installation process usually takes around 30 minutes.
  • Get connected: Your new gadget will then be connected to the smart meter grid via your chosen provider. This process can take around two weeks.
  • Set up your online account: Once you’re all set, make sure you activate your smart meter account and get familiar with your new gadget.

Will I have to pay for a smart meter

No, you will not have to pay for a smart meter.

The government is providing £11.3 billion to support the roll-out, which is being delivered by energy suppliers. In light of this initiative, the government believes that smart meters will play a key role in decarbonizing the energy system in the long run.

Check how green is your energy

By making it easier for consumers to switch to renewable energy tariffs and by providing data that can be used to develop new smart grid technologies, smart meters will help to reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels.

The roll-out of smart meters is currently underway and is expected to be completed by 2025. All homes and businesses in Great Britain will be offered a smart meter by their energy supplier.

Please note that smart meters are free to install and there is no obligation to switch energy suppliers when you get one.

What if I don’t want a smart meter

According to Statista, almost half of the UK’s population has already opted-in for a smart meter. As seen below, the first spot with 56% is occupied by the North East, closely followed by the North West.

Share of households using smart meters in the United Kingdom as of March 2021, by region

Opting for smart meters is ideal from both consumers and the industry’s points of view, as it’s an important pillar for sustainable development moving forward.

However, smart meters are not compulsory and you have the right to opt-out. If you do not want a smart meter, you can contact your energy supplier and let them know.

Smart meters troubleshooting

  • Problems with the installation

The most common problem with smart meters is that they are not installed correctly. This can lead to problems with the meter itself, or with the way that it communicates with your energy supplier.

  • Problems with the display

Some people have reported problems with the display on their smart meter. The display may be difficult to read, or it may not show the correct information. If you have any problems with the display on your smart meter, you should contact your energy supplier.

  • Problems with the communication network

The smart meter network is a secure wireless network that is used to send readings from your meter to your energy supplier. If there are problems with the communication network, it may not be able to send readings to your supplier.

This can lead to estimated bills or problems with your smart meter. If you have any problems with the communication network, you should contact your energy supplier.

  • Problems with the meter itself

In rare cases, there may be problems with the smart meter itself. This could be due to a manufacturing fault or damage to the meter. If the engineer finds that the smart meter is faulty, they will replace it for free. In the meantime, you will need to provide your energy supplier with meter readings manually.

Back to you

All in all, a smart meter will give you control of your energy consumption and undeniably save money on your bills. If you like the sound of that, enter your postcode in the box below and check energy suppliers in your area.

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