At Share Energy, we are shaking up the industry. We want to do things differently. One of our biggest frustrations is the outdated practices of big profit-driven energy companies. A major issue we face in Northern Ireland is the sluggish adoption of smart metering. While the rest of the UK and Republic of Ireland have leapt forward, we seem to be stuck in the dark ages of energy management. So why is this the case? 

Why smart metering?
Smart meters are designed to replace traditional meters and offer a real-time tracking of energy usage, accurate billing, and better energy meeting. For consumers, this means no more estimated bills, more control over energy consumption, and the ability to make informed decisions that can lead to significant savings. From a sustainability perspective, smart meters promote more energy efficiency and help reduce carbon footprints.

Anyone can get a smart meter – all it requires is a meter change from Northern Ireland Electric which is completely free. Suppliers can introduce ‘Time of Use’ tariffs which means consumers can move high usage activities such as your dishwasher or tumble dryer to times when the wholesale price is low - meaning you benefit from a low rate rather than being on a constant standard energy rate.

Seems like a no-brainer so why is there so much resistance?
A major roadblock to smart metering in Northern Ireland is the resistance from traditional energy companies. These giants seem reluctant to invest in new technology that would benefit consumers. Why? Smart meters disrupt the old model of estimated billing, and this can often lead to customers being overcharged. Accurate billing means companies - who are so used to pocketing the difference from inflated estimates -receive less revenue.

Government has its role to play too…
Another significant factor is the lack of decisive action from the Northern Ireland government. Westminster has mandated the rollout of smart meters across England, Scotland, and Wales but Northern Ireland has been left behind. The lack of clear policies and regulatory framework has created a vacuum and prevents progress. We need our leaders to push for energy solutions that benefit everyone.

Is the cost excuse a convenient scapegoat?
Energy companies often blame the cost of implementing smart meters as a major hurdle. There is an initial investment required, but the long-term benefits of smart metering far outweigh the initial costs. This includes, reduced operational expenses, happier customers, as well as the environmental benefits – so surely energy companies should see that as a worthwhile investment? Yet, the constant excuse of it being ‘too expensive’ continues to ring around conversations – serving as a convenient scapegoat for those who are simply unwilling to adapt.

Knowledge is power
Many people in Northern Ireland are unaware of smart meters and how they work. We need an educational strategy that informs the public about how smart meters could save consumers money and reduce energy consumption. At Share Energy, we are committed to empowering our customers with the knowledge they need to demand better energy solutions.

We share the people’s frustrations with the slow pace of change, and we are committed to revolutionising the energy sector in Northern Ireland. The slow adoption of smart metering in Northern Ireland is a complex issue rooted in resistance to chance, government inaction and a lack of consumer awareness.

We are here to demand better from energy providers and the government so we can welcome a new era of energy management. Why? Because we know it’s the right thing to do.