Quote:
Originally Posted by Saga Lout
They use power to tell you how much power you use, there's instances of them causing fires because they're made to a cost from shoddy materials, there's also some people that say they cause illness but I have nothing to say about that because I don't know. The simple point is that they're made to make you change your user habits, they do nothing other than that.
|
That is interesting. I am of the view that we all need to change our energy consumption habits. Which is why, as stated in post #35, I have been using a similar device of my own and keeping an eye on daily usage for the past 3ish years.
Quote:
Originally Posted by wraymond
They are intended to remove the element of consumer challenge arsing from disputed charges/readings. There are occasional increases mid-term which lead to protracted disputes which the suppliers automatically see as suspected fraud.
The system allows the supplier to independently switch the meter off in the cases of dispute until a satisfactory result is obtained, in their favour, without need for judicial verdict. Obviously, the consumer then has no energy supplied so pays up without delay.
Increased charges can be levied instantly without expense to the supplier making the business far more profitable and there is no need to employ meter readers. These and other considerable savings are entirely in the suppliers interest and confer no benefit to the consumer and are totally beyond the consumer's input. There's plenty more , but it's moot and pointless. There is no upside to the customer, no advantage, no gain or control. When market penetration is at the required level it will be too late to object.
Mainly though, the absence of a 'deal' with a term allows the supplier to avoid being limited to contract dates to impose real or opportunistic charges without reference to any market imperatives. Surprise, surprise. No doubt this will come as a disappointment. Of course, all this might not be true but I am quite happy to be taking bets.
|
I have to say that I've never had an issue with a utility company overcharging for supply. Nor changing prices outwith contract. But then I am a stickler for detail so tend always to maintain an understanding of what I am being charged and why. I can however see that where the consumer is in difficulty with payments etc. a smart meter will give the utility company instant over-riding power.
My smart meter is being fitted at the end of next week. We shall see how I get on with it over the next couple of years.