Smart Meters: What You Need to Know
What Is a Smart Meter?
A smart meter is a digital device that automatically sends your gas or electricity usage to your energy supplier. It also connects to a small screen in your home called an In-Home Display (IHD), which shows how much energy you’re using in real time.
Your energy supplier can provide an IHD free of charge when your smart meter is installed.
With a smart meter, you’ll be able to:
- See your energy usage instantly.
- Top up your energy credit using an app on your phone or computer (if you’re on prepay).
Is Installation Free?
Yes. Smart meters are installed free of charge by your energy supplier or a contractor working on their behalf.
Is My Data Safe?
Absolutely. Smart meters do not collect personal information such as your name, address, or bank details.
They only collect:
- Meter readings
- Supply numbers
- Meter serial numbers
All this information is protected by law. You can also choose how often your meter shares this data with your supplier — each minute, half-hourly, daily, or monthly.
How Can I Pay for My Energy?
If You Have a Credit Meter:
You’ll receive a quarterly bill, which you will pay in full. Alternatively, you can pay monthly using direct debit.
If you pay using direct debit, the energy supplier will estimate your annual usage then divide by 12 and that is how much you will be charged for each month.
If you use more than you pay for, your direct debit will be increased. If you use less than you pay for, your direct debit will be decreased. 30 days notice will need to be given by the supplier for this.
If You Have a Prepayment Meter:
You can pay using:
- A payment card
- A PAN (top-up) code
- An app on your smartphone
Using a Payment Card:
- Take your card to a shop with PayPoint or PayZone.
- Add credit to your meter.
- The money should transfer automatically via Wi-Fi.
- If the automatic top-up doesn’t work, you can enter the receipt code manually into the meter.
If You Don’t Have a Payment Card:
You can ask the shopkeeper to enter a PAN number, otherwise known as a top-up number directly into the payment terminal — no card needed. This number will be given to you by your energy provider.
Use your energy provider’s prepayment app to top up instantly.