Smart Electric Meters.

[playersdigger]

I have decided to have one fitted. Ofgem wants everyone to have one in by 2020 and it will save annoying estimated bills.
I just wonder if anyone else has had one fitted and can fill me in how exactly they are fitted.
I have a large cubboard about 3 foot wide containing my meters,the electric on the left hand side and gas on the right. How can they connect gas pipes and electric cables into one box ? I would appreciate anyone giving me an idea. Thanks.

[douglas9401]

I don't know myself but we do have a resident expert on the subject who will, I'm sure, be along shortly.

[New Judge]

Bear in mind that, at present, if you want to change suppliers you will probably have to have your Smart meter changed. They are currently not compatible across different suppliers.

Ofgem hasn't a chance of reaching their target whilst this shortcoming exists. I change suppliers almost every year and wouldn't consider a Smart meter when it means I need to change meters every time I change supplier. In any case it wouldn't do anything for me. I know exactly how much gas and leccy I use and how much it costs. I haven't had an estimated bill for probably 20 years and certainly not since I began managing my energy bills online about ten years ago.

[ABerrant]

Consumers with first generation smart meters... if you switch supplier and the new supplier cannot operate the meter in smart mode, they will need to operate it as a traditional meter with meter readings taken manually. Energy suppliers must inform you of this risk.

Suppliers are expected to start installing second generation smart meters in the first half of 2018. All suppliers will be able to operate second generation meters. This is because the government has appointed a company - the Data and Communications Company (DCC) - to establish a new national infrastructure that will enable communications between smart meters and all energy suppliers.

First generation smart meters are expected to be connected to the new national infrastructure in the first half 2019. This will give everyone the flexibility to switch between suppliers without losing smart features.

https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/understand-smart-prepayment-and-other-energy-meters/smart-meters-your-rights

[dannyk13]

You still have a gas and an electric meter.

[woofgang]

I don't get estimated bills. My gas and electric accounts are managed online and they email me when they want a meter reading. When I HAVE to have them then I will but not until then as I can see no benefit to me.