An Overview
Smart meters bring a number of benefits to customers’, and at Igloo we’re committed to offering our customers’ this new technology. Our smart meters are now being installed in our customers’ homes around the country, and we know you may have some questions about how we handle smart meter data, and your rights.
Your smart meter will communicate with us and send us regular data about how much energy you use, and when (more on this later).
To protect you there has been rules set out by the government around how suppliers can store and manage usage data, this guide gives you an overview of these rules.
Data preference
One of the benefits of smart meters is that they record much more information than current gas and electricity meters, they check regularly how much energy you’re using and pass these details on to us.
As a customer you are required to specify your data preference, and you have a choice about how often data is shared with us. During our signup process you’ll be presented with the options of half-hourly, daily or monthly (this can be changed at a later date if you decide you’d like to switch your preference).
How is my data used?
We will use your data to help improve your experience and manage your energy account with us, your data will be used for things such as:
- Account billing.
- Managing your supply.
- Helping with energy forecasting.
- To help improve our data driven services (such as Me & My Home).
- To improve our customer service.
- To allow us to provide you with personalised energy efficiency advice.
Who else can see my data?
From time to time, if needed we may share your smart meter information with:
- Other organisations who help us to provide products and services.
- Network companies, and other organisations who help manage energy supply and distribution.
- The police or other organisations responsible for spotting theft or fraud.
How is my data protected?
Our security measures for your data are agreed with the government and with regulatory bodies. Authorised members of Igloo staff will be able to see your information, and we will delete this securely once no longer needed.
What are my rights?
Unless you give us permission, we won’t pass your smart meter information to any third parties for the purpose of marketing.
How can I access my data?
You’ll be able to view your usage data and we’ll be able to assist you in doing this, whether this be through billing, in app, or through your In-Home Device (IHD). You can request your personal data, and we will advise you how to do this.
What’s the Data Protection Act?
As a customer you are always protected by the Data Protection Act 1998. The act sets out rights and obligations for the storage and use of personal data. If you’d like to learn more you can check out the website for the Information Commissioner’s Office here: https://ico.org.uk/
