@c0tt0nt0p
They are an absolute waste of money in a domestic context, where it no hassle to take a few readings. There is a already a bureau which records historical usage, so a change in pattern would be very simple to observe - besides if someone is going to steal power such a Vietnamese operated gang growing cannabis in a rented property then they will cut into the cables before the meter.
So where is the saving ? A promise of flexible tarrifs ? We already have that with Economy 7 and 10. Having the ability to get a cheap hour here or there is of no use to anyone. The main power consumption devices in the average domestic premise will be a Washing Machine or Dishwasher both of which will generally have a minimum cycle of 90 minutes. On top of this many people lack the timers and indeed many modern appliances now require a "start button" to be be physically pressed so can't operate on a simple mechanical timer.
As for the spin about them saving the consumer money then how ? Power companies already offer free near real time monitoring devices so you can see how much power is being used. On the odd occasion you might determine through the monitor screen that something extra is in use and then realise that you left the fluorescent strip lights on in the garage. But in reality you are most likely to see a saving by upgrading an appliance to an A+ model, but the economics mean this is not worth while unless the old machine has failed . Rather than wasting billions on the pointless meters which will do little towards achieving carbon reductions the same amount of money could be given to a customer towards a new fridge or other machine where a saving could be made. Perhaps the same amount of money could be spent in replacing consumers 50W halogen bulbs with 5w LEDs. Which would make a real difference in saving power, money and CO2.
Basically these are a solution looking for a problem. Much like all these "Internet of Things" devices. I have seen very few real uses cases for most of these devices either.
I for one will refuse a smart meter and I know many others particularly those who have a Feed in Tarriff of 43p per KwH and with spin dials which operate in reverse from solar system who will also refuse a meter.