Can we refuse the installation of a Linky meter at home? Do we risk a financial penalty if this is the case? Here’s everything you need to know.
We recently learned that to deal with the potential energy shortage this winter, the government allows itself the possibility of temporarily deactivating the power supply to the water heater of consumers equipped with a Linky meter and holders of a peak hour/ off-peak hours. An announcement that prompted some to wonder if they were able to refuse the installation of a Linky meter in their home.
The Linky meter is not mandatory
West France asked for explanations from Enedis, the manager of the electricity distribution network, a subsidiary of EDF. The company said that the mass deployment phase was actually completed at the end of 2021. Today, more than 35.4 million meters have been installed and less than 10% of households remain to be equipped.
For those households that have not yet switched to Linky, there is currently no obligation to do so. “ Enedis continues the installation of Linky meters for all customers who wish “Explains the company to the regional media.
Despite this lack of constraint, Enedis indicates that demand is high, “ with 30,000 meters installed per month “.
How to avoid paying a surcharge?
A few months ago, the Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) offered to charge individuals refusing the installation of a Linky meter in their home in order to encourage the last recalcitrants. This proposal was ultimately not accepted, but you will still have to intervene to avoid going to the checkout.
“ For customers not equipped with a Linky meter and who would not have transmitted a consumption index in 2022, CRE has announced a meter reading billing system which will be gradually implemented from 1er January 2023. Customers who have not sent their consumption index will pay an additional €8.48 every two months, i.e. €50.88 excluding tax per year until the old electricity meter in their home is replaced. by a Linky meter », Means Enedis.
If you don’t have a Linky meter, you must communicate your consumption index at least once a year to avoid being billed. Self-survey can be done online or over the phone with the help of an advisor. Enedis will remind the consumers concerned by email or SMS to remind them that they must carry out this operation.
Source : West France
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