Linky lambasted

In its May newsletter, the head of Le médiateur national de l’énergie, Jean Gaubert wrote: “While I am convinced of the interest of this project, which I support publicly, I am worried about the delay in setting up the necessary [online] tools to enable consumers to better understand their energy consumption, to see the benefits.”

The group also published a Q&A on the subject with consumer group UFC-Que Choisir’s President Alain Bazot, who reported on feedback from consumers: “The association notes consumer mistrust,” it said. “Questions are also asked about the health risks associated with waves or the use of personal data.

“These questions reflect more general concerns about information technology and connected objects”.

National grid firm Enedis rolled out the first Linky units in December 2015 and so far over 4million meters have been installed at a rate of 20,000 a day.

Several hundred communes and 1.6% of potential users have refused installation, while on May 16 lawyers launched a class action lawsuit against Enedis, citing electromagnetic waves, breaches of privacy and potential for overcharging.