Smart Meter
A digital energy meter that sends automatic readings to your supplier. Required for time-of-use tariffs and useful for monitoring solar generation and export.
Related Terms
EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
A rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) that shows how energy efficient a property is. Required for the BUS grant and useful for identifying upgrade opportunities.
kWh (Kilowatt Hour)
A unit of energy equal to using 1,000 watts for one hour. Used to measure electricity consumption and generation. Average UK home uses about 3,500 kWh per year.
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)
The quality assurance scheme for small-scale renewable energy installations in the UK. MCS certification is required for installers to be eligible for government grants and feed-in schemes.
Net Zero
Achieving a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted and those removed from the atmosphere. The UK has a legal target to reach net zero by 2050.
Time-of-Use Tariff
An electricity tariff with different rates at different times of day. Off-peak rates (typically overnight) can be as low as 7-10p/kWh - ideal for charging EVs or batteries.
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