More deals as Linky logs on in 15m homes

More than 15 million homes now have the meters, which allow detailed, real-time monitoring of people’s electricity use, and all should be fitted by 2021.

Sylvain le Falher, co-founder of energy comparison site hellowatt.fr, said Linky allows for new offers which can give large savings, especially for people with varied use times.

He said: “There are weekend offers for people who mostly use their energy then. In some cases, such as for second homes, it can be interesting.

“There are also offers with different rates for summer and winter. Or Direct Energie has an heures super creuses [super off-peak] offer, for use at night.

“If you heat your water and charge your car overnight, it can make a big difference.

“If half of your consumption was in that period you could save 20% compared to being on EDF’s regulated tariff.”

The meters have attracted criticism over health risks, data protection and their funding.

Consumers report increased marketing, including cold calls, from energy firms but Mr le Falher said this is likely to be from their own suppliers, proposing a switch to a new tariff.

However consumer group UFC-Que Choisir warns against strong selling tactics of Engie.

One advantage of Linky is that bills relate to real usage, not an estimate based on earlier readings during visits to your home.