Vulnerable energy customers concerns alleviated by new power partnership

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TBM Team

Smart Energy GB announces partnership to ensure supply to medically vulnerable customers.

For those who are medically-dependent, the stress of a potential power-cut can be overwhelming. The UK’s biggest electricity distributor, UK Power Networks is working alongside Smart Energy GB to lessen the stress for those for whom a power cut could prove disastrous.

Smart Energy GB promote smart meters and outline the benefits of the tech - especially for those who are vulnerable. UK Power Networks’ research found that 75% of medically-dependent customers were yet to learn about the benefits of a smart meter installation, particularly for those in similar circumstances to their own.

When a customer is off-supply, Smart meters automatically let UK Power Networks know without any need for contact. From there, they can automatically alert the customer and their support contacts.

This information enables UK Power Networks to get ahead of the game and understand whether the power cut is a network issue or is caused by a problem with equipment. All of this occurs without requiring the customer to act, giving them peace of mind in stressful circumstances..

Innovations like this and other benefits of Smart meters have resulted in more than two thirds of medically-dependent consumers saying they’d consider having one installed. The majority of medical equipment is backed up by an emergency power supply for short outages. This gives power companies time enough to halt power to a property so that an installation can be completed.

Head of Customer Service and Innovation at UK Power Networks, Ian Cameron spoke about the partnership, saying: “It is important for us to identify and reach the customers most in need of our targeted support so it is easier for them to receive help.

“Customers who are medically-dependent on electricity are amongst those at highest risk during a power cut and it is vital to reduce their potential levels of stress during any outage, an increased take-up of smart meters is helping to achieve that in partnership with Smart Energy GB.

“Support has to evolve and we constantly look at what has changed for our customers so that we can continue to adapt and make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Deputy Director of Specialist Audiences at Smart Energy GB, Phillippa Brown added: “Smart meters automatically flag disruption to your energy supply to UK Power Networks, meaning there’s one less thing to think about if the situation occurs. This can be extremely helpful for vulnerable or medically dependent people, alongside other benefits such as automatic meter readings and better visibility of your energy use, via a handy in-home display.

“The partnership between Smart Energy GB and UK Power Networks continues to help more people to understand the positive impact smart meters can have.”

TBM Team