I'm with OVO, only a few months now, no problems so far.
Nice clean website. They will pay 3% interest on positive balances (when over a month in credit)
I shall refuse any offer of a smart meter. -
There was an article in The Times (30th May) regarding smart meters.
To quote some parts -
"
One person’s pickle — or meringue — doesn’t make a scandal, and I won’t know until an electrician visits next week what has gone wrong. However, the way my supplier, Ovo, is dealing with the problem has left me feeling queasy about the project. And I am not alone, as the emails and comments that have winged my way from readers this week show. Here are just a few of the problems that others have pointed out:
● Mike Smith, also with Ovo, was told that if he had a meter installed it would not work with other energy suppliers, making it difficult to switch. Ovo says: “If both your previous and new supplier use the same smart meter technology, your meter should continue to send data as usual. Unfortunately, there is currently no rule that all suppliers should use the same technology.”
● Richard Burr was told that he couldn’t have a meter because the mobile signal was too weak in his area. His supplier, First Utility, says: “Smart meters communicate using mobile technology — a weak signal can prevent a meter sending reads.” A problem for large parts of the country.
The sensible course would be for Ovo to send the individual back who installed the meter. But, no, I have to find an electrician who is supposed to mend the problem and draw up a report. If this shows that the meter installation is at fault Ovo will pay for the electrician, if not, it comes out of our pocket — so much for a free fitting. Having encouraged us to install the meter, Ovo seems to want to wipe its hands of responsibility. Even if the report is in our favour I will have to take time off work and chase Ovo for payment.
This is what comes from the government setting demanding targets, but then leaving it up to the suppliers to meet them, suppliers which in most cases are relying on outside contractors. Unless the rollout is policed better and suppliers can ensure that the technology works, that meters are properly installed and provide a level of after-care when problems arise, the smart meter rollout will be a disaster. Even if problems only affect a minority of householders this is gas and electricity we are talking about — homes could burn down, lives could be lost.
The major rollout of the meters will begin in April next year. You can refuse to have one installed and, until the government and energy companies can offer more guarantees, my advice is to say no. Some of the meters being installed now, it turns out, are not particularly “smart” anyway and will have to be replaced before 2020, spelling more hassle for the consumer. What a mess — just like my sinking, uncooked meringue."
