WIREDGOV

Citizens Advice responds to today’s government announcement that a communications system which will link smart meters to energy suppliers will not be ready until Autumn.

The system, a key IT project that will support the 2020 roll-out of smart meters, was supposed to be switched on today (Wednesday 17 August).

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said:

“Smart meters can transform the way people use and pay for their energy.

“This is now the third time in 18 months that this IT project has been pushed back and we are concerned that the delay to this important communications system will make it harder to meet the 2020 deadline for the roll-out of smart meters. This could make the overall project more expensive and hit consumers with higher bills down the line.

“It’s crucial that the government is clear on whether the compressed timetable for installation will result in additional costs to consumers.”

Notes to editors

1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local Citizens Advice, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more see theCitizens Advice website.
2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.
3. To get advice online or find your local Citizens Advice in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk
4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers.
5. Local Citizens Advice in England and Wales advised 2.5 million clients on 6.2 million problems in 2014/15. For full service statistics see our publication Advice trends.
6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 2,500 service outlets across England and Wales.