I was delighted to meet with John McNeil, Head of Policy and Communications, Scotland, Smart Energy GB, recently, to discuss the benefits of smart meters.

Smart meters help keep track of your gas and electricity use and communicate directly with your energy supplier and your smart meter display, using secure wireless technology.

Everyone will be offered a smart meter by 2020, provided and fitted by your energy company at no cost to the customer. They do not require an internet connection, having their own dedicated secure system.

These meters will pave the way for a smarter, greener and more energy-efficient future. Bills will always be accurate and customers will have access to all the information they need to manage household budgets, at no extra cost.

Smart meters also mean that those on pre-pay meters pay the same rates for their electricity as everyone else.