We’ve now reached about 50% Smart Meter penetration in the UK, and along the way overcome some significant technical challenges. For example, almost all first generation SMETS1 meters are now able to work when the consumer switches supplier, the data is proving reliable, and we transfer huge amounts of data with very few issues.
Smart Meters have also started to deliver on their promise of a new energy system – as seen by their central role in the demand response trials, and with more reliable bills, and putting consumers in more control of their energy use.
But we are still only half-way there.
There remains a lot of negative press about Smart Meters, so an essential part of completing the roll out is a more persuasive argument to consumers on their value. Recent issues with prepayment meters haven’t helped. My post last week included Social Tariffs and Smart Meters are essential for this – this is the type of argument that we should be making.
Other options include
Electricity only – many installation issues would be avoided if only one meter was fitted. The value to consumers is greater for electricity meters. This would also reduce costs for suppliers.
Look at what other countries have done. I heard yesterday that Saudi Arabia had installed ten million meters in a matter of months. Perhaps they gave their consumers less choice?
Regional model – many regions that have completed their roll out have taken a regional model rather than the supplier led model that we have in the UK. This could be done by the electricity DNOs, or another option would be to competitively tender by region.
Pay consumers – everyone loves a sale, and everyone loves a freebee. Additional energy support cash could be made available to those with a Smart Meter. Alternatively, there could be a surcharge for remaining on a dumb meter.
We also need to start designing the next generation of Smart Meters – SMETS3. Smart devices and dynamic pricing all need new solutions. There is an argument that these shouldn’t be going through the meter, but with decisions this fundamental we need to be moving quickly on the designs now.
