Installing a smart meter for electricity gives your home more capabilities, such as solar installations and the ability to handle increased power needs. New homes already require smart meters in NSW, and if proposed changes by the AEMC are passed, all homes could need a smart meter by 2030.
If you’re confused about smart meters, this article gives you all the information you need to know.
What are smart meters?
Unlike traditional electricity meters, digital smart meters record your electricity usage in 30-minute intervals and transmit this data daily to your energy retailer. The result is more accurate billing, as you no longer rely on estimated energy use. Smart meters for electricity don’t require manual reading, so the entire billing process becomes faster. Importantly, smart meters are essential if you intend to install solar panels.
Reasons to upgrade to a smart meter for electricity
Smart meters offer plenty of benefits, including:
- Accurate billing
- Cost savings
- Remote connections/disconnections
- Compatible with renewable energy
Let’s look at some further reasons to upgrade to a smart meter.
Comply with proposed AEMC changes
The Australian Electricity Market Commission (AEMC) has proposed legislative changes that will require all existing homes in NSW to be fitted with new smart meters for electricity by 2030. While these laws have not been passed and are only recommendations at this stage, it’s inevitable that these changes will occur at some point. You can get ahead by upgrading now on your terms.
Future-proof your home
As technology advances, modern homes ultimately require more energy. Many old electrical systems can’t handle an increased demand, thus making new smart meters essential. But a smart meter also sets you up for the future, for example, solar panels or electric vehicle chargers. Future-proof your home now and enjoy all the other benefits of smart meters.
Smart meters are essential for solar
If you want to go solar, there’s no choice but to use a smart meter. Smart meters enable accurate measurement of the electricity generated and used. They support feed-in tariffs where you’re paid by a retailer for exporting excess power back to the grid, and are compatible with solar inverters and systems.
Building a new home? You’ll need a smart meter
If you’re building a new home in NSW, it’s a legal requirement that you install a smart meter instead of a traditional electricity meter. This legislation has applied to all homes built since 2017, so if you’re in a modern house, you’ve likely already got a smart meter and won’t need to worry about an upgrade any time soon. Even though it’s compulsory, it makes perfect sense to install a smart meter anyway, as you’ll be able to install solar and make your home more energy-efficient.
Looking for smart meter upgrades?
Supply Workforce offers a comprehensive smart meter upgrade service for all NSW residents. With qualified ASP electricians on hand to install and set up your meter, make Supply Workforce your first call. A smart for electricity may be essential by 2030, so get ahead of the pack and upgrade today.
