With winter on its way here’s how a smart meter can help you take control of your energy use.

Energy consumption is a worry for many of us, especially as winter approaches. It can be difficult to be sure how much we are using and how much it will cost. There is a simple and easy solution…a smart meter. A smart meter can help you feel more in control of your household energy use. It can also help you find ways to save energy too.* A new generation of gas and electricity meters are being installed in homes across Great Britain and getting one could be ideal if you’re wanting to keep an eye on things.

Broadcaster Angela Rippon has really seen the benefits of her own smart meter, and feels they give people a better understanding of their energy use. Angela says, ‘With my smart meter, the in-home display unit tells me exactly how much energy I’m using and what it’s costing, allowing me to make small changes and become more energy efficient. It’s certainly had an effect on my utility bills. It’s effortless, a real win-win for me.’

So, what are the benefits? Well, with a smart meter you can see exactly how much energy you are using each day and get accurate bills. Because you can see what you are spending and when, it’s much easier to understand which of your appliances are using the most energy. You can then find simple ways to cut down. Another great plus is that you can access schemes and tariffs that reward you for using energy flexibly, potentially helping you to save money on your bills.*

Not only can a smart meter help you feel more in control and save money, but they are also super easy to use too. You don’t need to be a tech wizard.

Smart meters come with a handy display unit, so you can see how much energy you’re using, and the cost in pounds and pence.  Another great benefit is that you can avoid having to crawl into the understairs cupboard again to take a reading. Smart meters automatically supply your provider with regular readings, and that means you get accurate bills, so there are no nasty surprises.

If you have a prepay energy meter, a smart meter allows you to keep track of your credit, so it doesn’t run too low before you have a chance to top it up. And you can choose to add credit online from the comfort of your own home, as well as at a shop. It doesn’t cost anything extra to get a smart meter installed, so why not make the smart switch? Contact your energy supplier to request a smart meter, or visit www.smartenergygb.org

*Consumer action required.

**Eligibility may vary