Which? research encourages energy companies to take the smart meter pledge

The vast majority (93%) of people say they would not let an energy company salesperson into their home © Sarel Jansen

By 2019 53 million smart meters need to be fitted into homes and businesses throughout the UK. New research from the consumer's champion Which? reveals that the vast majority of people - 93% - say that they would not let an energy salesperson into their home. 31% wouldn't even open their door.

As plans for the installation of smart meters take shape, Which? is concerned that the companies will use the roll-out as an excuse to send in salespeople disguised as installers and has warned industry not to use the opportunity for a hard sell.

Which? has challenged all energy companies to sign up to the its ‘No selling, Just installing’ smart meter promise.

So far, seven energy companies, including First Utility, Ovo, and Co-operative Energy, have signed the pledge. Renewable energy suppliers Good Energy and Ecotricity have also signed up.

Which? executive director Richard Lloyd, is urging "those that haven't yet signed up to do the right thing by their customers and sign up today.”

The cost of the smart meter installation is estimated at £11 billion and consumers are expected to foot the bill for installation. However, in the longer run smart meters have the potential to reduce bills and save consumers money through improved energy efficiency. Smart meters also send usage info directly to the supplier and remove the need for meter readers to make visits.

To see which companies have signed up to the Which? ‘no selling, just installing’ smart meter promise, visit www.which.co.uk/smart

Which? surveyed 1,290 GB adults aged 16+ online between 2nd and 6th June 2011.