Smart Meters, Who Cares? Survey Says Most British Consumers Don't

While smart meter bashing has become fashionable here in the U.S., a recent survey of British consumers says that seven out of 10 would ignore the information smart meters provide — even if it means they could save money on their energy bills. The UK plans to have smart meters in most homes by 2020, but as one official pointed out, it can't be assumed that consumers will use the meters just because they have them; they need to be shown how the meters will help them manage their energy use and save money.

Quick Take: Which is worse, being mistrusted or being ignored? In the smart meter deployment environment, we're not sure. But the survey cited does underscore the obvious need to work with and educate consumers so they understand how this new metering technology can benefit them. Interesting side note: Another survey conducted in Britain two years ago showed that 75% of its respondents liked the smart meter concept — when it was explained to them.

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