The deployment of Linky meters by Enedis since 2017 aims to modernize the French electricity network. But between technical problems and controversies, this “smart” meter seems to be in bad shape.
Linky: Laudable goals but costly malfunctions
The distributor puts forward several laudable objectives to justify Linky:
- improvement of measurement precision,
- real-time data transmission,
- more efficient network management.
Yet, numerous malfunctions accompany the installation of these meters.
While some users tamper with their meters to pay less, others experience malfunctions and find themselves paying too much.
The meter can record consumption even when disconnected, causing billing errors. Cases of exaggerated invoices are increasing:
- a user in Charente-Maritime was asked for 4,320 euros,
- and a couple in Pas-de-Calais the modest sum of 180,000 euros!
Reimbursement procedures are endless, up to 6 years in some cases. Connection incidents also lead customers to pay third party bills. Faced with these problems, Enedis undertakes to compensate victims of errors linked to Linky.
Illegal practices on the rise on Linky meters
Some adopt illegal behavior in the face of Linky malfunctions: circumventing the meter to reduce bills, pirate training offering to manipulate the meter and energy costs.
Growing distrust of Linky
Consumer associations report numerous testimonials from injured customers. Controversies are increasing, with unfounded accusations of spying via a hidden camera in Linky.
Distrust is growing in the face of this meter whose bugs can be very expensive, as illustrated by these examples of bills multiplied by 10. The modernization of the network remains to be continued, but with better support for users.
A bit of a geek and passionate about new technologies, I bring you the hi-tech news of the moment but not only that… I am closely interested in current affairs and I love analyzing it. So I do everything possible to make it understandable for everyone. I believe journalism must go beyond the facts, adding passion and thoughtfulness to truly engage and enlighten.
