It is interesting to see energy providers increasing fuel costs and saying they are doing all they can for the consumer in the same breath. All energy companies are trying to reassure the public that they are doing all they can to help the consumer, but are they?

They talk about applying smart meters as if that is the answer but do they understand what happens on the other side of the smart meter, what happens in the home? All houses are different and therefore they require different remedies to reduce energy consumption and it should start by understanding the fabric of the building and what the user requirements are.

If this assessment is carried out to the right standard, which should not be an expensive exercise with the emergence of modern technology and clear independently assessed process, the remedy may be as simple as changing a door, a window or basic insulation. What it will do is reduce the amount of energy consumed but I guess this is not what the energy providers want, what they want are rising costs and consumption for greater profit.

So, as a consumer we need to make sure that we are getting the right advice and deal from assessors and installers both of whom can be and should be driven by the energy providers. If the assessment and process is done in the right way it will breed confidence in all consumers who are currently sceptical of green technology installers, assessors, builders and most of all energy providers.

I suppose another question to follow on the heels of this issue is, what are our government doing to ensure the consumer is getting the right advice and deal? Do they understand consumer needs or are they listening to the big energy providers as well as some of the so called independent research establishments?

Where can the consumer go to obtain the right advice? Which organisation not supported by groups with vested interests can honestly say they have an understanding of the issues supported by independent research?

Consumers are beginning to understand the agenda of all those involved.