Information correct as at 3rd December 2009
The energy market is now starting to see a flow of gadgets which monitor your energy usage in real time, making it easier to keep tabs on your consumption than ever before. Understanding your consumption better should, in turn, lead to a reduction in energy usage and hence lower bills – which surely everyone wants. In particular, increased energy awareness could help customers most vulnerable to fuel poverty stay on top of their bills.
The emergence of gadgets such as smart meters and energy monitors also suggests that the end is in sight for estimated energy bills. Which is no bad thing, as more accurate energy billing is advantageous to both supplier and consumer.
Let’s take a closer look at the gadgets available:
Smart Meter
This meter replaces your current one, and hence needs to be installed by a qualified engineer. It takes an electricity reading every half hour (or daily in the case of gas), and sends the data to your supplier. Customers therefore get accurate, meter-read bills without having to contact the supplier. Furthermore, you can check out your usage online and analyse the results – finding out which days and times you use most of your energy.
Energy Monitor
This is a clip which attaches to your current meter. There’s no wiring involved, and it’s straightforward to install yourself. Once connected, it’ll transmit information on your electricity usage to a digital display, that you can put anywhere in your home. Some of the handheld ones could even be worn round your neck, if you really want.
The display unit will give clear and easy to read real-time information on usage and cost. Some more swanky models – such as the Wattson (the iPod of energy monitors) – will even change colour to reflect your current usage. However, whether you receive estimated bills is up to you; as you still need to contact your supplier or input your readings online each month.
So which should I get?
You can guarantee bill accuracy with a smart meter, without having to contact your supplier. However, this can potentially mean that you become less engaged with your consumption. Plus a smart meter is also fixed to an address, so you’re likely to have to arrange a new installation if you move.
An energy monitor gives you a specific display unit for your home, so you can keep an eye on your energy usage up to the minute... It’s more visible. You do still need to provide a reading to your supplier each month, but this might not necessarily be a bad thing as you will be keeping your ongoing energy consumption in mind. And it’s transportable, so you can just unclip it and bring it with you when you move.
If you’re feeling flush, you could just get one of each. Or maybe you won’t even have to pay for one, as they’re sometimes installed or given away free by switching to particular tariff. Why not come to Confused.com to see what offers are available.
Getting a gizmo isn’t the only way to reduce your energy bills. You can also do so by using a Consumer Focus accredited comparison site such as Confused.com for finding the tariff that suits your circumstances.
Further reading
Monitor your energy usage accurately with a Smart Meter
Guide to reading your gas and electricity meter
How to cut down on usage
