Why smart meter can be a silly idea

SMART meters are stupid. That’s the verdict of many readers, judging from some of the stories I’m hearing.

These gadgets are supposed to send readings automatically to the supplier so you get more accurate gas and electricity bills.

Well, that’s the theory. But here is a round-up of what I’m told. POOR SIGNAL John in Hampshire told me that he stopped receiving bills for 11 months after he had a smart meter installed.

He then received an estimated bill. This shocked him because he thought smart readers produced “actual” data. My thoughts: One major flaw with smart meters is that they rely on a good mobile signal because they send data back to the supplier via the mobile phone network.

There are still many areas where the signal is poor and so residents in those areas will not benefit from “actual” readings. SMALL OR NO SAVINGS

Linda from Southampton has had a smart meter for two years and has seen no saving.

Frank from Hartlepool says that he saved £10 in the past 12 months. My thoughts: Everyone’s experience will be different due to varying circumstances. However, many consumers have reported seeing no or tiny avings. FORCED INSTALLATIONS

Patricia from South Wales told me how she was informed that it was now compulsory to have a smart meter installed. My thoughts: This is absolutely not true. There is pressure on suppliers to get smart meters into all homes by 2020 but it is not compulsory for you. It is still your choice. DIFFICULTY SWITCHING

Janice from Humberside complained that when she came to switch suppliers it was almost impossible. The new supplier could not connect to the smart meter. My thoughts: This has also been a common complaint, mainly from those who have a first-generation smart meter provided between 2009 and 2011.

If you have one, demand a replacement on the basis they are not really fit for purpose and that had you known this you would not have agreed to the installation.