Smart meters 'may reduce carbon footprint'

People in the UK could use smart meter technology to save money on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint, new research has suggested.

According to the Journal, new research from the Energy Saving Trust found that 96 per cent of respondents in a recent survey think having a smart meter in their home would help them cut down on their home energy use.

It is thought that trials of the devices can help homeowners save between five and ten per cent on their energy bills, with projected figures indicating that residents in the north-east of England could save around 300,000 tonnes of carbon emissions by using the technology.

"Smart meters help householders work out how much energy they are using and how much they are paying for it, as well as showing in real time which appliances are producing the most carbon dioxide," said Steve Hunter, director of the Energy Saving Trust's advice centre in the north-east.

Meanwhile, according to the Wrexham Evening Leader, Welsh households could save up to 16,000 tonnes of carbon emissions if every home in Wrexham was fitted with smart meter technology.