An energy bill warning has been issued to seven million customers as a big switch off will cripple smart meters in the UK. The parliamentary accounts committee (PAC) has published a report on the roll out of smart meters today.
Millions of Smart Meters at Risk
The PAC report warns that millions of smart meters will be rendered useless when the 2G and 3G phone networks are scrapped. These meters rely on wireless networks to function, and with the switch to 4G, many will need to be replaced.
Upgrade Costs Passed on to Consumers
Homeowners may be asked to handle the costs of upgrading their smart meters, as well as any new installations. The PAC warns that these costs could be significant and will ultimately be passed on to bill payers.
Deadline for Switch Over
The switchover from 2G and 3G to 4G is set for 2033, so upgrades will need to happen before then. Consumers should check with their energy provider to see if their smart meter is compatible for a new SIM or if it needs a new installation.
Non-Functioning Smart Meters
The PAC report reveals that three million smart meters are not working properly, while millions more have inoperable in-home displays. This means that consumers may not be able to take advantage of energy-saving tariffs and benefits.
Delayed Rollout and Consumer Concerns
The rollout of smart meters, which began in 2011, has faced numerous delays. Only 57% of 57.1 million meters are currently smart in Great Britain. Consumer enthusiasm for smart meters has also been affected by reports of forced installations.
What to Do if You Have a Faulty Meter
If you have a faulty smart meter and your energy supplier is hesitant to fix it, you can submit a complaint. Each energy company has its own complaints procedure. If the issue is not resolved, you can take the matter to the Energy Ombudsman.
For the full list of energy suppliers that charge to replace smart meters and displays, click here. To learn more about the potential benefits of smart meters, see our handy explainer here.
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