MP urges city residents to get summer energy smart

A Sunderland MP is urging residents in the city to become energy smart this summer.

New British Gas data shows more than 8,400 smart meters have now been installed in Sunderland homes with all residential and business properties being offered smart meters by the end of 2020.

Julie Elliott MP for Sunderland Central is encouraging constituents to consider smart meters to control energy use in the home.

She is showing her support for the initiative following a smart meter demonstration by local Smart Energy Expert, Jim Kelly.

Ms Elliott welcomed the news that some residents had already had smart meters installed, free of charge, and encouraged other constituents to follow suit.

Smart meters replace traditional meters and come with a smart energy monitor, showing how much energy is being used and what it is costing, in pounds and pence, in near real-time. Smart meters also mean an end to estimated bills as they automatically send meter readings to the supplier.

The MP said: “Smart meters put people in control of their energy use and that’s why it’s positive to hear that many homes here in Sunderland have already embraced this technology. I’d encourage everyone to find out more about the benefits of smart meters.”

British Gas Smart Energy Expert, Jim Kelly, said: “Getting smart meters installed means you can see how much gas and electricity you’re using so you can stop using energy you don’t need to.

“Small changes, like unplugging electronics when they are not in use, and only filling the kettle with the water you need can save energy.”

All homes and businesses in Britain are being offered smart meters by the end of 2020. To find out more about having smart meters installed for free in your home, visit www.britishgas.co.uk/smart.