Cardiff Council is working with Smart Energy GB to help older people in the city to learn about smart meters and the positive changes they can bring.

The partnership is part of Smart Energy GB's campaign to inform and inspire people about smart meters and ensure they know how to get one.

Every home will have the opportunity to upgrade to a smart meter, at no extra cost, as part of the national smart meter rollout, which will improve Great Britain's energy infrastructure.

The Council is encouraging residents, particularly over 65s in the city, to find out more about smart meters by visiting hubs and libraries throughout the city where staff can provide information on their benefits. A series of events will also be held at hubs, libraries and foodbanks around the city where people can learn more about the rollout.

Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, said: "Smart meters are the simple and accurate way to control energy usage and as many people struggle to pay their energy bills, they can help people to save money by reducing the amount of gas and electricity they use. Seventy-nine per cent of smart meter owners say their meter gives them a better idea of what they're spending on energy.

"We're very pleased to be working with Smart Energy GB to help people understand how smart meters can help them. Not only can smart meters save people money, they also do away with the need to provide meter readings and people can automatically top up their credit, without having to leave home.

"Our staff will be out and about in hubs and libraries in the coming weeks ready to explain the benefits to anyone interested so I'd encourage anyone yet to have a smart meter installed to find out more."

For more information on the Smart Energy GB in Communities campaign in Cardiff, visithttp://www.cardiffhousing.co.uk/index.php?section=advice_and_support&option=smart_meters