Bill Boost: New £40 rule for smart meter delays to help 3,400 local households – MP welcomes
People living in over 3,000 homes across Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard, Houghton Regis and surrounding areas could be in line for a £40 smart meter delay pay out.
The government-backed measures which kick in this month are designed to force energy companies to pull up their socks and sort out delays and missed appointments.
Now anyone who waits more than six weeks for a smart meter to be installed, or more than 90 days for a faulty meter to be fixed, get the automatic payout.
Cash will also be paid if energy firms fail to issue a “fix plan” within five working days, or if an installation appointment is missed because of a supplier mistake.
There’s no need for residents to complain, fill in forms or chase. The money must be paid automatically.
Local MP Alex Mayer has been campaigning for the changes after being contacted by a Dunstable resident with a broken smart meter. This caused incorrect bills and months of hassle with the MP having to step in with the energy company.
Welcoming the changes, Ms Mayer said it would “cut the stress” and “stop people being messed around.”
“These new Government rules mean that if energy companies fail to deliver, people get cash back automatically, and that’s only fair.” said the Labour MP.
Latest figures show more than 70% of homes in Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard constituency have a smart meter, with over 90% working correctly – leaving around 3,400 faulty meters locally.