Fuel disclosure: the roll-out facts
DEBUNKING THE MYTHS
Myth: Smart meters are compulsory.
Fact: Smart meters are not compulsory. It’s entirely your choice. The Government requires energy suppliers to offer smart meters to all homes, but whether you accept them is completely up to you.
Myth: They are vulnerable to hacking.
Fact: Smart metering has been specifically designed to stop hacking happening. The system is secure and has been designed with top cyber-security experts, including the Government’s security organisation, GCHQ. Your name, address, bank account or any other financial details are not stored on your smart meter. The only information kept on it is your gas and electricity usage and what tariff you have chosen.
Myth: They pose a risk to health.
Fact: Smart meters are one of the safest pieces of technology in your home. They have undergone rigorous safety testing. Like mobile phones, TVs and microwaves, smart meters emit very low radio frequency emissions – one million times lower than international health guideline levels and much lower than from other everyday devices in the home.
Myth: Your bills will increase.
Fact: There is no additional cost to the consumer. The national investment in the roll-out is spread across everyone’s bills. Furthermore, the roll-out will save £1.50 for every £1 invested, so your bills will come down.
Myth: You can’t switch suppliers.
Fact: If you have a smart meter you can switch suppliers in exactly the same way as anyone else can. Many people find they can switch suppliers seamlessly, while others may find they have to start sending meter readings again. This is a temporary loss of smart functionality – the first generation of smart meters will be upgraded over the air as the roll-out progresses. In the future, smart meters will make it quick and easy to shop around and change your gas and electricity suppliers if you find a better deal. They’re paving the way to a world in which we can click to switch supplier in 24 hours – without smart meters and the data they provide on energy use, that just would not be a reality.