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First Utility reaction to DECC smart meter probe announcement
Mon, 11/05/2009
Attributed to: Darren Braham, Director, First Utility
First Utility is the only UK energy supplier to provide smart meters to UK consumers and businesses as standard. first:utility has installed over 10,000 smart meters UK-wide since its launch in September 2008.
“We welcome today’s announcement by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) regarding the proposed national rollout of smart meters. We hold real hope that the proposed roll out will help promote increased competition in the energy marketplace, which can only ultimately benefit the consumer.
“However, we urge a note of caution to the DECC’s announcement regarding the proposal for a single provider of communications services for all smart metering. We are concerned that this system may take control and accountability away from energy suppliers and thereby stifle innovation. In addition, our experience shows there will be a requirement for the deployment of multiple communications technologies to ensure national coverage of all UK households. As a result, it’s imperative that there is further consultation with suppliers such a first:utility that have real and active experience of smart metering and the relevant technologies involved.
“The DECC’s proposed model for the national provision of smart metering will take some time to come into effect. If the consumer’s interests are to be best represented it is essential that Government plans continue to support current suppliers such as first:utility in the roll out of this technology.
“We now encourage the government to push forward in the implementation of the roll out as soon as possible so that consumers across the country can start to enjoy the significant benefits of smart metering, and to close the gap between the provision of this service in the UK and other European countries where in many cases we lag considerably behind.”
To speak to Darren Braham today, please call Rachel Brewin, Sian Gaskell or Abbie Strudley on 01865 882988.
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Notes to Editors
About First Utility
First Utility is the smarter independent utilities supplier, offering electricity, gas, phone and broadband services to a range of consumer and business customers.
It is the only energy provider to provide smart meters to all its customers, and therefore the only utility company to ensure 100% accurate billing across all its services. It is through the use of smart metering technology that First Utility can empower consumers to manage their own energy consumption and bills.