From Intention to Action: Policies for Addressing the Barriers of Smart Meter Penetration in Emerging Markets

The rapid global shift towards sustainable energy solutions has highlighted the crucial role of smart meters in effectively managing energy consumption. This study employs the “Theory of Planned Behaviour” to analyse the impact of attitude, socio-economic advantage, environmental benefit, and subjective norm on the intention to continue the use of smart meters, with a particular focus on the role of data privacy concerns. The study utilizes structural equation modelling to analyse the data collected from a randomly selected sample of 405 smart meter customers. The results demonstrate the strong effect of socio-economic advantage on the willingness to continue use, with a significant effect for environmental benefit and policy support. In addition, the study finds data privacy concerns to be a critical barrier to the continuing use of meters, significantly reducing their willingness to use them, even when they express a strong desire. Based on the findings, several policy implications for strengthening continued usage of smart meters among existing users. Further policies propose standardised installation training, consumer engagement through smart apps, digital billing and ease-of-
access, and comprehensive data protection measures. The study puts forward a comprehensive roadmap for higher penetration of smart meters by 2040.