TECHNOLOGY
SMART METERING : THE crux of a ‘ revolution ’, according to Spain ’ s Telefonica . The British government calls them “ the next generation ” and if you ask France ’ s EDF , they ’ re the “ smarter future ”.
The new gas and electricity meters seem set to transform the way the world monitors its energy usage . You can see the universal appeal ; the meters have several proposed benefits . Smart meters display near real-time data on energy use , which allows households and businesses to better manage their energy use . Plus , it brings an end to estimated billing . Consumers can budget better and energy suppliers deal with fewer billing complaints . It ’ s a win-win situation .
Providers all over the world recognise the demand for efficient energy use , thus smart meter programmes are being developed globally . For example , the
British government plans to install a smart meter