As the number of smart meters installed by British Gas in homes approaches the 1.5 million mark, Paul Davies has welcomed news that over 1,286 homes in Preseli Pembrokeshire are already benefiting from British Gas smart meters. Smart meters were on display at the British Gas stand at the Royal Welsh Show (this week), along with other technology which helps people understand and reduce their energy use.

Smart meters* give people greater insight into how much gas and electricity they’re using. A smart energy monitor can be placed anywhere in the home to display in pounds and pence how much gas and electricity is being used, helping people to be more efficient. Smart meter readings are sent automatically to energy companies, putting an end to estimated bills and manual meter readings.

Mr Davies said: “Smart meters provide a terrific insight into how smart energy technology is helping my constituents become more aware of energy use. British Gas also provide customers with a “My Energy Report” that breaks down energy use so people can see how they are consuming energy and where further savings can be made. This will help make energy customers manage their bills much more efficiently in the future.”

Last week, British Gas launched its next generation Hive Active Heating™ 2, a range of new app features, and a family of complementary Hive products. More than 200,000 homes now control their heating remotely using Hive. 51% of customers use it daily, and 70% think they’ve made energy savings since having it installed.

Mathew Gregory, a Welsh Smart Energy Expert for British Gas, who attended the Royal Welsh Show, said: “Whether it’s discovering how energy efficient the fridge is, what the cost of using the tumble dryer is; or if it’s being able to turn the heating off without getting out of bed, our customers are excited about these new technologies. They make life easier and can save you money on your energy bills.”