Only a third of energy bill payers have a smart meter in their home, according to new survey.
The survey, which has been published today by Igloo Energy, claims that despite huge efforts by the government and the sector to encourage take-up, only 34% of households have one.
It also shows that the vast majority (65%) of those who have a smart meter only have one because their energy provider gave it to them.
Around a third (32%) said they installed it because they believed it would save them money, and only 15% actively sourced a smart meter.
For two thirds of the population who have not got a smart meter, the majority (25%) said they are happy with what they are paying and believe that smart meters won’t lower their energy bills.
One in ten were unsure how to get one and 4% don’t know what a smart meter is.
Igloo Energy’s research also found that there is a lot of trepidation amongst Brits around using smart technology in the home.
Despite two thirds (63%) believing that smart technology will help lower household bills – on average by £47 per year – many believe that there are too many risks associated with them. Nearly half (47%) of respondents are so scared of the prospect of a cyber attack in their home that they refuse to install or purchase any smart devices even if it will save them money.
“This research shows there is still a lot of doubt around the benefits of smart meters and smart home technology, despite them offering long term savings compared to consistently switching providers,” said Igloo Energy chief executive, Matt Clemow.
“A large proportion of UK households (60%)are currently stuck on their energy provider’s more expensive standard tariff after being lured in with discounted introductory tariffs. However, if a household tracks how much energy they use, they will start to use less and will see long-term savings. At Igloo we use smart technology to provide our customers with actionable insights to help them see where they can save energy so they see long-term savings.”