Conservative Spokesman on Energy and Climate Change, Dr Ian Duncan, has welcomed today's announcement that seven million UK homes are to receive smart meters for energy use.
The roll-out is being funded by a £1bn programme funded by six commercial banks and the European Investment Bank, backed by the European Fund for Strategic Investment (EFSI).
Smart meters contain a digital display, showing consumers how much energy they are using and how much it is costing them.
Dr Duncan commented:
"Against a backdrop of the UN Climate talks in Paris – which I will be attending - this is the perfect time to be focusing on measures to boost energy efficiency.
"Smart meters can offer a range of benefits for consumers, giving people almost real-time information about their energy use.
"The meters should mean households are only billed for the energy they actually use, meaning an end to sometimes costly estimated bills.
"Today's announcement will complement the positive work being done by the UK Conservative government, which plans to ensure that all homes and small businesses receive a smart meter by the end of 2020."