By Paul Homewood
h/t Ian Magness
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/03/12/smart-meters-forced-on-households-by-big-energy-firms/
The Telegraph report:
“Households are being forced to fit smart meters by Britain’s biggest energy companies in a drive to meet net zero targets.
Four of the “big six” energy firms, including British Gas and Octopus, confirmed to The Telegraph that they no longer fit “dumb” meters when replacing equipment at the end of its life.”
But energy companies have consistently fallen short on their targets to fit the meters, with customers concerned that they provide incorrect readings. The big six suppliers are all facing investigation by Ofgem, the regulator, over last year’s installation figures.
There is nothing new here, but this comment is alarming:
“Smart meters can be switched into “dumb” or restricted mode by energy suppliers, meaning they do not send automated readings.
But Citizens Advice told The Telegraph that some suppliers are refusing customer requests to do this, despite rules saying households should have the option.
Energy retailers have been holding up the introduction of new rules to make it easier for households to put their own smart meters in dumb mode since 2021.
Two firms – Octopus and British Gas, which together supply electricity to 43 per cent of British households – told The Telegraph they no longer stock dumb meters to replace older models.”
Read the full story here.
