Smart meters can help to alleviate energy issues, says charity

A Midlands charity supporting people to resolve energy bill issues is promoting the use of smart meters to help people maintain control of their finances.

Citizens Advice Staffordshire North and Stoke-on-Trent (CASNS) is seeing a growing number of its clients facing issues with their energy bills – particularly around disputes arising from estimated readings.

They are encouraging clients to look into the installation of smart meters, which help to send accurate meter data to energy providers.

Liam McAulay, Service Manager at CASNS, said: “Estimated readings often lead to confusion or overcharging. We’re also seeing issues where new tenants are billed for previous occupants’ usage, typically charged by delays in submitting final meter readings. Some clients remain reluctant to use smart meters, which is making accurate billing more difficult.

“Our approach is to provide in-depth, holistic energy advice tailored to each client’s circumstances. A key part of this is promoting the use of smart meters, which eliminate estimated bills and empower clients to better understand and manage their energy use.”

Recently, the team have been successful in supporting clients with emergency fuel vouchers, discretionary energy payments and white goods grants to help people struggling. They’re continuing to support people this winter through a series of schedule outreach sessions, providing face-to-face, practical help to those who need it.

They’ve supported people like Peter* who had been ‘burying his head in the sand’ in regard to his debt before realising he needed help.

Unable to work due to severe health conditions and needing to support his large family, he had debts exceeding £25,000. Peter was living off benefits and unable to afford essential white goods for his house.

The CASNS team were able to take swift action, supporting Peter with access to a series of benefits he was unaware he was entitled to as well as foodbank vouchers, a small grant and a cooker from the British Gas White Goods portal. In addition, the energy tips given could save Peter and his family more than £800 each year.

*name changed to protect identity

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