More than 50% of US homes had a smart meter in 2015.

That means suppliers have installed 65 million smart meters so far, according to a report by the Institute for Electric Innovation.

It added more than 30 electric companies in the country have fully deployed smart meters.

It estimates the deployment of the technology will reach 70 million by the end of this year and 90 million by 2020.

Companies in the country are using smart meter data to improve grid operations, integrate distributed energy resources, provide customer services and support innovative pricing.

The institute added they are keen on modernising the grid and are projected to invest $32 billion (£26.24) in the distribution system in 2016.

In the UK , the government plans to install around 53 million smart meters in more than 30 million homes and businesses across the country by 2020.

Smart meters will all be part of the discussions at the Energy Live 2016 conference on Thursday. Join in the debate using #EL2016.