ALYTH IS set to be at the cutting edge of the fight to cut down energy bills thanks to Scotland’s first “smart meters” being installed in homes.

Scottish Hydro Electric fitted the first meter at the home of resident Kenny Moyes yesterday as the town bids to cut its energy use by 10% in the next two years.

The new meters will provide customers with real time information about the energy they are using, how much it is costing them and the impact they are having on the environment.

In the longer term, they will also bring about the end of estimated bills and meter readings.

The town has been chosen for the trial thanks to a partnership with Alyth Environmental Group and the Save Cash and Reduce Fuel initiative.

The move is part of a wide range of energy efficiency measures with the aim of helping the entire community slash its energy use and bills.

The smart meters being installed will gather information about both gas and electricity which will be sent back to the company so it can collate a community-wide picture of Alyth’s usage.

Ian Marchant, Scottish and Southern Energy’s chief executive, said, “We firmly believe that there must be radical changes in the way that energy is produced and consumed.

“Ongoing investment in green energy needs to be balanced with the development of new technology that gives customers practical help to reduce their energy consumption.”

Clive Bowman, chairman of Alyth Environmental Group, is spearheading the Alyth Climate Action Town Project to encourage a more responsible climate-friendly lifestyle by the residents of Alyth.

He said, “I am extremely pleased that Alyth has been chosen by Scottish Hydro Electric to receive Scotland’s first smart meters.

“They will play an important part in the community’s drive to reduce energy consumption and as a result, significantly boost our progress as a Climate Action Town.”

Mr Moyes said, “Already it has made me think about how much energy I use and the steps I can take to start reducing this.”