Energy bill budgeting smart tips

SMART meters handy tech or a real headache in the making? As the Government pushes ahead with its target for 80% of homes in England, Scotland, and Wales to have one by the end of 2025, more households are feeling the pressure to say yes. But do you have to?

- by Katie Elliott

Starting with the basics, a meter smart or not measures how much energy you use. Smart meters do this automatically, sending readings to your supplier without the need for a meter reader. Suppliers love them because they cut admin costs and provide a clearer picture of usage. Many now offer cheaper tariffs to customers who agree to have one installed.

Despite some public hesitation, most users seem fairly happy. Uswitch reports that more than two-thirds (67%) of smart meter users describe themselves as either "fairly" or "very" satisfied so it's not all doom and gloom.