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Users´ understanding of smart meters in Sweden: an
interpretive study⋆
Shashini Rajaguru 1,†, Björn Johansson 1,∗,† and Gianluigi Viscusi1,†
1 Linköping University, Campus Valla, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
Abstract
Smart Grid has emerged as a phenomenon in energy management by replacing traditional grids
with cutting-edge technology. Central to this innovation are smart meters, which hold significant
potential for transforming energy consumption, monitoring, and regulation. However, the
success of smart meter implementation relies heavily on user engagement. This research delves
into the perceptions, barriers, and concerns associated with smart meter usage, focusing on
Sweden, where smart meter deployment is mandated by the government. Utilizing a two-step
investigation comprising a literature review and interviews with new smart meter users, this
study identifies key obstacles and apprehensions hindering acceptance and adoption. By
employing the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory as an interpretive lens, the
analysis underscores the understanding of users as a relevant social group and the interpretive
flexibility of a technology that, for its closure, requires further negotiation among the different
relevant social groups. This approach sheds light on the challenges associated with the need for
appraisal by users and the commitment to a specific technological choice by institutions. The
findings offer insights for future research and practice to promote sustainable energy systems.
Keywords
Smart Grid, Smart Meter, User Perspective, SCOT Theory.
1. Introduction
In recent years, the management of energy resources has gained significant attention from
both public and private organizations. This focus is driven by the goal of achieving
Affordable and Clean Energy, which is one of the aims outlined in the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). A significant development in this area is the
development of the "Smart Grid." This advanced system uses cutting-edge technology to
improve the way energy is distributed and consumed by addressing inefficiencies found in
traditional grids. Central to the concept of the smart grid are smart meters. The whole idea
with these devices (smart meters) utilize advanced technology to replace older meters,
BIR-WS 2024: BIR 2024 Workshops and Doctoral Consortium, 23rd International Conference on Perspectives in
Business Informatics Research (BIR 2024), September 11-13, 2024, Prague, Czech Rep.
∗ Corresponding author.
† These authors contributed equally.
shashini.rajaguru@liu.se (S. Rajaguru); bjorn.se.johansson@liu.se (B. Johansson); gianluigi.viscusi@liu.se
(G. Viscusi)
0000-0003-0163-442X (S. Rajaguru); 0000-0002-3416-4412 (B. Johansson); 0000-0003-0770-7108
(G.Viscusi)
© 2024 Copyright for this paper by its authors. Use permitted under Creative Commons License Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
which require manual readings and only provide cumulative usage data. In contrast, smart
meters automatically transmit usage data to the energy provider, offering detailed, real-
time insights. This automation facilitates more accurate billing, helps users identify energy-
saving opportunities, and allows for more precise monitoring of electricity usage in homes
and businesses. By providing real-time data on energy consumption, smart meters enable
users to better understand their electricity usage patterns. This understanding helps people
make more informed decisions about their energy usage, leading to more efficient and
sustainable energy practices.
Unlike the traditional grid, which merely transmits or distributes electric power, the
smart grid is designed to store, communicate, and make decisions, as highlighted by Tuballa
and Abundo [3]. This intelligent communication feature of the smart grid brings smart
meters into focus, making them one of its most important components. Smart meters
facilitate two-way communication between energy suppliers and users, measuring and
reporting energy consumption to enhance energy efficiency and saving. As advanced
metering devices, smart meters promise to transform how we consume, monitor, and
regulate energy, holding immense potential for shaping a sustainable energy future [4-6].
However, the successful implementation of smart meters for exploiting all the potential
advantages of the technology and increasing their impact on the quality of the environment
seems still far from being fully reached.
In the case of Sweden, considered in this paper, the successful implementation of smart
meters is not merely a matter of factors like users’ acceptance and engagement. In fact, it is
mandated by the government, and households have no choice since smart meters are
implemented as part of the energy management infrastructure [7]. It is within this context
that understanding user perspectives, awareness, and attitudes toward smart meters
becomes crucial, even when user choice is limited. According to the engagement-oriented
perspective that guides our study, we define household electricity users in Sweden, who
have undergone the mandatory implementation of smart meters, as users.
Despite the promising potential of smart meters, a notable gap exists between the
technology and its full exploitation, even in mandated adoption scenarios. Many users lack
knowledge and understanding of smart meters, hindering their willingness to fully embrace
this innovation. Bridging this gap requires investigating how users with limited knowledge
and understanding perceive smart meters, as well as identifying the barriers and concerns
that influence their willingness to adopt and utilize this technology.
Therefore, the primary objective of this interpretive study conducted in Sweden is to
address the following research question:
How do household electricity users understand smart meter technology when adoption is
compulsory by government mandate?
The subsequent sections of this paper will first present an analysis of the state-of-the-art
literature on smart meters. Then, we provide a detailed account of the study's methodology,
findings from interviews, and finally implications of the research.
2. Literature Review
This literature review aims to examine the relevance of user involvement within the field of
smart meters in the context of information systems. Employing a systematic approach, the
review focuses on publications from the AIS Electronic Library spanning a 12-year period
from 2010 to 2022; to ensure access to the latest insights on smart meters, reflecting recent
technological advancements, evolving adoption rates, updated policies, increased research
interest, and emerging trends within the field. We focus on the context of information
systems since we would like to have a clear focus on the combination of people, organization
and technology as the subject information systems has. The decision was then to focus
exclusively on publications from the AIS Electronic Library is justified by several factors.
Firstly, the AIS Electronic Library is a renowned repository specializing in information
systems research, ensuring that the selected literature directly addresses the intersection
of smart meters and information systems. Secondly, this approach ensures consistency and
reliability in the review process, as all included articles undergo a similar level of peer-
review and quality assessment. Additionally, by limiting the search to a single database, the
review can effectively manage the vast amount of literature available on the topic,
enhancing efficiency and allowing for a more thorough analysis within the designated
timeframe. By conducting a single keyword search for "smart meter" within the titles, the
review identified 21 relevant publications. Following an analysis of abstracts, 20 articles
were selected for inclusion in this review based on their explicit or implicit definition or
description of smart meters. These chosen articles were thoroughly investigated to explore
various dimensions of smart meters, including adoption, data analytics, interface design,
privacy concerns, and more. The primary objective of this review is to ascertain how these
articles define smart meters and discern whether they acknowledge the active role of users
that they all mostly see as users, either explicitly or implicitly, thus underscoring the
significance of user involvement within the smart meter literature. In Table 1, a summary
of the main themes from the literature review is provided.
Table 1: Themes on Smart Meters Adoption Perspectives.
Themes
Key points
Citation
Exchange of
information and
tailored decision
support
The importance of smart meters as an exchange
point for information about household energy
consumption, empowering users to make informed
choices regarding energy efficiency.
Dalén and
Krämer [11]
Bidirectional
communication
and new
services
The smart meters bidirectional communication
between users and energy suppliers facilitates the
provision of new services and enhances the overall
functionality of the grid.
Wunderlich,
Veit and Sarker
[12], [13]
Energy
efficiency and
renewable
energy
integration
The data provided by smart meters reduce energy
consumption and support the integration of
renewable energy sources.
Sodenkamp et
al. [14]
Privacy
concerns and
trust-building
measures
Trust seals as a mechanism to enhance trust and
mitigate privacy concerns for ensuring widespread
acceptance and adoption of smart meters.
Degirmenci
[15]
Policy effects
and economic
implications
The impact of policy decisions on the successful
implementation of smart meters and widespread
adoption.
Morelli et
al.[16]
User
behavioral
factors
The analysis of users´ attitudes, beliefs, and
concerns related to privacy, risk, and the perceived
usefulness and ease of use of smart meters for the
development of strategies to promote smart meters
adoption.
Various
studies [17-20]
Business
models and
customer
clusters
The exchange and analysis of smart meter data as a
new business model to identify detailed customer
clusters using smart meter data.
Strüker,
Weppner and
Bieser [21], Liu,
Yao, Eklund and
Back [22], and
Flath, Nicolay,
Conte, van
Dinther and
Filipova-
Neumann [23]
Supplier
perspectives and
demand side
management
The smart meters and demand side management
(DSM) challenges should be seen from the perspective
of energy suppliers.
Johansson,
Granath and
Melin [24]
Goal-related
design features
and energy
consumption:
Different design features, such as consumption
display, evaluative standards, goal incentives, and
reference groups, impact on energy-saving behaviors.
The design of smart meter interfaces with goal-related
features, can motivate and empower households to
achieve energy-saving goals
Wendt and
Benlian [25]
In summary, the reviewed articles not only focus on the technical aspects and potential
benefits of smart meters but also acknowledge the significant role of users, whether
explicitly or implicitly. This recognition highlights the importance of users’ involvement,
engagement, and acceptance to have a successful adoption and utilization of smart meters.
By considering users’ perspectives, attitudes, and behaviors, these studies contribute to a
more comprehensive understanding of the smart meter landscape and emphasize the need
for user-centric approaches during the design and implementation of smart meters. Given
the wealth of research on users’ acceptance of smart meters, it's crucial to question its
relevance against other potential factors when the technology is mandatory implemented.
Thus, in what follows, we discuss a interpretive study aimed at increasing our
understanding of users’ views, to eventually uncover fresh perspectives.
3. Research Method
In this section, we present a qualitative interpretive study [28] conducted to uncover the
perceptions of the users of smart meters and identify the barriers and concerns influencing
their willingness to adopt and utilize this technology. This qualitative study was conducted
in Sweden, where implementation of smart meters is mandated by the government. The
study's involved conducting interviews with twelve participants, representing Swedish
smart meter users. They were interviewed after recently undergoing the mandatory
implementation of smart meters. The analysis of the interview data yielded valuable
insights into the experiences and perspectives of these users, shedding light on the factors
that may hinder acceptance and utilization of smart meters among this specific group. To
further scrutinize the findings, this study employs the Social Construction of Technology
(SCOT) theory advanced around Science and Technology Studies (STS) by Trevor Pinch and
Wiebe Bijker [8, 9]. By applying this theoretical framework to the qualitative data, this study
aims to gain a deeper understanding of how user perspectives and societal factors
contribute to the adoption of smart meters in the mandated context of Sweden.
3.1. Using SCOT Theory as an Interpretive Lens
We chose the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory as an interpretive lens for
our study because it provides us with a robust framework for understanding the complex
interactions between technology and society in our study of users' perspectives on smart
meters [8, 9]. SCOT suggests that technology does not determine human action; instead,
human action shapes technology. It emphasizes that the working of technology is socially
constructed and influenced by the values, beliefs, and interests of society [10]. In the context
of smart meters, SCOT theory explores the interpretive flexibility, relevant social groups,
negotiation processes, and potential for closure. By focusing on SCOT, we can explore three
key concepts that are particularly relevant to our study:
Relevant Social Groups: SCOT emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse
perspectives and priorities of different social groups involved in the development and use
of technology. In our study on smart meters, we recognize that stakeholders such as
designers, engineers, policymakers, regulators, and users all play a role in shaping how
smart meters are perceived and utilized.
Interpretive Flexibility: SCOT acknowledges that technologies can be interpreted in
different ways by different social groups, depending on their context and values. In the
context of smart meters, users may have varying interpretations of the technology based on
factors such as their knowledge, experiences, and concerns about privacy and data security.
Negotiation and Closure: SCOT recognizes that over time, debates and negotiations
among social groups may lead to the negotiation of a particular interpretation or design of
technology. In our study, we are interested in exploring how user perceptions of smart
meters may evolve over time as debates about their functionality, benefits, and drawbacks
continue.
Using SCOT as a theoretical lens allows us to decode empirical data by analyzing how
these concepts manifest in the perspectives and experiences of users with smart meters.
Through structured analysis, we aim to uncover codes related to how social dynamics shape
the adoption, usage, and meaning of smart meters in specific contexts.
3.2. The Case of Sweden
Since 2003, Sweden has been an early adopter of smart meters in Europe, aiming to reduce
electricity consumption and achieve energy savings of 3-4% by providing real-time
feedback to users on their energy usage [26]. The introduction of smart meters has evolved
their functionality from mandated monthly billing to more frequent measurements.
However, concerns have been raised about the varying functionalities introduced by
different distribution system operators, leading to questions about the equal treatment of
users [27]. In response to this, the Swedish Energy Markets Inspectorate (EI) established a
regulation in 2017 that sets seven minimum functional requirements for all electricity
meters in the low voltage network. These requirements aim to enable extended
measurement, improve customer interface, facilitate remote measuring and data collection,
ensure hourly or fifteen-minute registration of active energy, enable remote software
updates and control, and provide remote access for turning power on and off through the
meter [7].
The government's legislation has influenced the replacement of numerous electricity
meters in Sweden, marking the second-generation rollout of smart meters in the country.
However, it remains uncertain whether the newly replaced smart meters align with the
minimum functional requirements set by the EI. Furthermore, it is also unclear how users
with limited knowledge and understanding of smart meters perceive this technology, which
is what we have collected data about, and the aim of the research presented in this paper.
3.3. Data Collection Methodology
To gather insights into user perspectives on smart meters, twelve semi-structured
interviews were conducted in Sweden, both online and in-person. The interviews followed
an interpretive approach and consisted of five structured questions with open-ended
follow-up questions. The initial questions focused on participants' experiences with smart
meters, including whether and when their electricity meter was replaced with a smart
meter, their opinions on the functionality of the new meter, their awareness of its features
and benefits, and their overall experience interacting with the meter, including any
challenges or advantages they encountered. Follow-up questions were tailored based on
participants' initial responses to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. Each interview
session lasted approximately 45 minutes.
Participants for the study were selected based on their willingness to participate,
communicated through an open invitation posted in a community social media group in an
area where electricity meters had recently been replaced. Five participants were from this
targeted area, while seven additional participants from other cities in Sweden, who also had
access to the social media group, volunteered due to their similar novice experiences with
replaced electricity meters. This approach ensured a diverse representation of participants
from different energy supply companies, enhancing the study's strength and validity.
The data analysis procedure involved applying the Social Construction of Technology
(SCOT) theory as a lens, focusing on themes such as interpretation, social construction,
negotiation, and closure.
4. Empirical Data and Findings
The perspectives shared by participants offer valuable insights into their experiences with
smart meters. Participant #1, who recently had their electricity meter replaced voiced
concerns:
"I'm puzzled by the lack of information about the replacement and the purpose of the small
white box on the wall, which I assume is a thermostat. However, a bit more clarity, especially
from the national government, would be beneficial!"
Participants #2 and #8 echoed similar sentiments, expressing confusion about the new
electricity meter and its functionalities:
"I have a white box next to my meter cabinet. I presume it's for digital readings... My
electricity meter was recently replaced, but I lack detailed information." (#2)
"About 18 months ago, I heard about electricity meters being replaced with smarter
ones. Now that my meter has been changed, I'm unsure about the alterations." (#8)
Concerns regarding meter readings and electricity contracts were also raised by
participants #4 and #5:
"I'm uncertain if the new electricity meter alters my electricity contract." (#4)
"...they replaced the electricity meter at my place. I'm concerned if our previous agreement
remains valid. I hope everything will be fine." (#5)
Some participants, like Participant #6, had specific expectations or prior knowledge,
such as anticipating a Home Area Network (HAN) port, only to discover otherwise:
"My electricity provider applied for hourly readings in mid-September, which hasn't been
activated yet. I expected my new electricity meter to have a HAN (Home Area Network) port.
Initially, I thought it should have one, but it's beneath the sealed cover at the bottom. I learned
from the distributor that this meter lacks a HAN port."
Participant #3 also expressed awareness of smart meter functionalities but voiced
disappointment and confusion about the information provided with the new meter:
"...They mentioned 'Track your electricity use in real time (if you connect an app to the
meter)'...but after some research, I couldn't find any external meter to plug into the HAN port.
I'm confused; are they referring to an app for real-time consumption?"
In contrast, Participant #7 displayed a higher level of awareness about smart meters.
However, they encountered issues such as the inability to monitor solar energy input and
incorrect consumption data, highlighting unresolved issues with the new meter:
"After the meter replacement, I can no longer track the electricity input from solar cells,
and the consumption data displayed on my pages is incorrect. Upon contacting the distributor,
I was informed it's a known issue, but they couldn't provide a timeline for resolution. Despite
this, the new meter isn't particularly 'smart'!"
Participant #9 provided intriguing perspectives during the interview, despite having
limited knowledge about smart meters. Demonstrating a keen interest in understanding
their functionality, viewing smart meters as a digital evolution from traditional analog
counterparts. Notably, Participant #9 emphasized the potential for smart meters to
empower users with greater awareness and control over their energy consumption:
"If I could monitor my electricity consumption and observe daily increases, I'd be more
proactive in making adjustments."
Their neutral stance on government-mandated installations, coupled with emphasis on
affordability, underscores the multifaceted nature of adoption:
"I inherently trust the government's judgment... My perception is neutral; it's acceptable...
In fact, I lean towards feeling more positive than negative about it."
Participant #9's insights underscored the importance of user engagement, government
communication, and affordability in driving widespread smart meter utilization.
Furthermore, they provided insights into potential enhancements in smart meter
functionality, emphasizing the need for user-friendly interfaces and real-time feedback
mechanisms. They envisioned centralized platforms or simplified displays for seamless
monitoring and proposed integrating reminders and usage limits to encourage energy
conservation.
In discussing the future of smart meters, Participant #9 emphasized the significance of
cost-effectiveness, highlighting the impact of electricity prices on user motivation:
"My primary incentive to alter behavior would hinge on electricity prices... If electricity
remains affordable, my level of engagement may diminish."
Participant #10 shared insights regarding the recent installation of smart meters in their
apartment approximately six months ago. They highlighted the social and regulatory
dimensions surrounding smart meter deployment, acknowledging potential benefits such
as increased awareness of energy consumption and the convenience of monitoring usage
through mobile apps. However, they also expressed concerns about the lack of guidance
from energy providers on effectively setting up and utilizing smart meters, emphasizing the
importance of comprehensive user education and support. The interview further explored
the potential impact of smart meters on energy management, with Participant #10
speculating on future advancements in functionality, such as remote control of electricity
consumption via mobile apps. They envisioned easier control of electricity usage from a
distance. Moreover, Participant #10 discussed how access to real-time data from smart
meters could influence energy consumption behavior, expressing expectations for user-
friendly interfaces to visualize usage patterns over time. The participant expected clear
options for filtering and summarizing usage over weeks or months.
Two residents of a century-old house discussed their experience with smart meters.
Participant #11 shared that they had assumed they always had a smart meter since moving
in 13 years ago. Reflecting on their awareness, Participant #12 expressed surprise at the
mandated implementation of smart meters in Sweden. Despite this, they recognized the
practicality of remote monitoring and precise billing facilitated by smart meters. Discussing
their energy consumption behaviors, Participant #12 noted adjustments made in response
to real-time pricing data provided by their smart meter, such as scheduling washing at night.
The couple emphasized the importance of user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive
support from energy providers, suggesting it would be useful to know which circuits use
the most electricity. Envisioning the future of smart meters, Participant #11 proposed
advanced functionalities that can dynamically adjust energy usage based on household
activities. Overall, their insights underscored the importance of awareness, user
engagement, The interviews offer valuable insights into how users perceive smart meters.
Many participants had limited knowledge about smart meters and joined the study to learn
more. This highlights the importance of educating and engaging users in smart meter
adoption, as emphasized in existing literature.
Participants also showed confusion about their new electricity meters, with some
unaware of additional features. Clear communication between energy companies and
customers is crucial to address this confusion. Concerns about electricity contracts indicate
the need for clearer explanations about how the new meters affect energy usage and
billing. Additionally, some participants had certain expectations or prior knowledge about
smart meters, highlighting the importance of considering customers' varying expectations
during the design and implementation of smart meter programs by energy supply
companies.
These interviews reflect the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory, showing
how participants interpret smart meters differently based on their experiences and
knowledge. Negotiations between participants and energy providers regarding smart meter
functionalities and contracts were observed, highlighting the dynamic nature of user-
provider interactions. While some participants expressed dissatisfaction or confusion,
others showed acceptance and awareness of the benefits of smart meters. These insights
underscore the complexity of smart meter adoption and the importance of social factors in
designing and implementing smart meter programs. Effective communication, user
engagement, and affordability are critical for successful adoption, aligning with SCOT
principles. Addressing these concerns and expectations is vital for successful adoption from
a user’s perspective after the mandated implementation by energy companies.
5. Discussion
The interpretive investigation offered insights into users' understanding of smart meters,
shedding light on their experiences, knowledge levels, expectations, and concerns. Through
a thorough analysis, the study uncovered significant findings by suggesting propositions
(shown in table 2) that not only contribute to ongoing discussions on smart meter adoption
and usage but also introduce novel implications for both academia and
industry. Furthermore, the participants' experiences resonate with various aspects of the
SCOT theory, providing additional insights into the socio-technical dynamics underpinning
smart meter adoption and utilization, as outlined in Table 2.
Table 2. Applying SCOT theory.
SCOT
Concepts
Building propositions based on SCOT Theory
Interpretive
flexibility
Users with limited knowledge and understanding of smart meters may
interpret the technology differently. Their interpretation is influenced by
their interests, values, and beliefs. The lack of awareness and understanding
may lead to misconceptions and concerns about the technology's
functionality and potential benefits.
Relevant
social groups
The relevant social groups involved in the development and use of smart
meters include designers, energy suppliers, policymakers, regulators, and
users. Each group has different interests, priorities, and perspectives
regarding smart meters. Their engagement and collaboration are crucial for
the successful integration and adoption of smart meters.
Negotiation
The development and adoption of smart meters involve negotiation
among the relevant social groups. Users' concerns and preferences need to
be taken into account during the design and implementation processes.
Effective communication and engagement strategies are required to address
users' barriers and build trust.
Closure
The closure of smart meters refers to its widespread acceptance and
dominance in society. While smart meters have been increasingly adopted,
the interpretation and use of the technology can continue to evolve over
time. Ongoing research, policy adjustments, and technological
advancements may lead to further iterations and improvements in smart
meter functionality and user engagement.
A significant finding from the study is the pervasive lack of knowledge among
participants regarding smart meters and their functionalities, enforcing interpretive
flexibility among the different relevant social groups (see Table 2). This finding resonates
strongly with prior literature, emphasizing the critical necessity for comprehensive user
education and engagement strategies to facilitate widespread adoption. It underscores the
imperative for energy providers and stakeholders to invest in educational initiatives aimed
at enhancing awareness and understanding among users. Clear, accessible information
elucidating the benefits and mechanics of smart meters is essential to bridge these
knowledge gaps effectively. For instance, Participant #1's expression of uncertainty
regarding replacements signals a need for broader governmental dissemination of
information. Similarly, the confusion demonstrated by Participants #2, #6, #8, and #12
underscores the urgency for enhanced user education initiatives to address knowledge
deficiencies. Furthermore, participant interviews unveiled widespread confusion regarding
the functionality of the new electricity meters. Effective communication channels between
energy providers and consumers are pivotal in resolving this issue. Providing clear and
comprehensive information regarding replacement procedures, functionalities, and
benefits is crucial to alleviate confusion and foster user acceptance.
While the Swedish government has promoted the benefits of smart meters through
various campaigns, many participants indicated that they did not receive detailed
instructions on how to use the new technology or fully understand its benefits. This suggests
an instrumental orientation toward appraisal through informing the users “to “close down”
the range of possible technological commitments” [29, p.264]. This also suggests a gap in
the practical information provided to users at the time of installation. Common issues
reported by participants included a lack of guidance on using the meters, concerns about
changes to their electricity contracts, and technical problems such as incorrect consumption
data. Specifically, four participants mentioned difficulty in accessing real-time data, and two
reported problems with their solar energy inputs not being accurately tracked.
Another noticeable theme that emerged is the diversity in expectations and prior
knowledge among participants regarding smart meters, points out the relevance of
negotiation among the relevant social groups (see Table 2). Accordingly, this underscores
the importance of tailoring initiatives to accommodate existing user knowledge, manage
expectations, and furnish accurate information. Aligning customer expectations with reality
is crucial, as highlighted by Participant #6's anticipation of a Home Area Network (HAN)
port, Participant #3's disappointment with information provision, and Participant #9's
neutral stance on government-mandated installations.
Moreover, concerns were raised regarding the contractual implications of new
electricity meters on existing agreements and billing. Improved communication and
transparency from energy providers concerning contractual nuances are imperative to
address these concerns and enhance customer trust in the technology. Technical issues
encountered by participants with the new meters further underscore the importance of
prompt resolution and effective customer support from energy providers. Addressing
technical challenges enhances the reliability and perceived "smartness" of the meters,
contributing to further appraisal [29] by the users as a relevant social group (see again Table
2), and opening up the closure of the smart meter.
In general, the interviews revealed that a major part of the participants had limited
knowledge about smart meters and participated in the study to learn more about the
technology. This emphasizes the significance of user education and engagement in the
adoption of smart meters. Energy supply companies should invest in educational initiatives
to increase awareness and understanding among users, addressing the gaps in knowledge
identified through the interviews.
5.1. Implications for practice
The findings of this study also have implications for practice, and several recommendations
can be made to enhance users’ full adoption and engagement in smart meter programs.
Firstly, there is a need to develop comprehensive and accessible user education initiatives
that increase awareness and understanding of smart meters. These initiatives should
provide clear and accurate information about the functionalities, benefits, and replacement
process of smart meters. Secondly, communication strategies should be improved to ensure
effective dissemination of information. Clear and accurate communication about features
and functionalities of smart meters, as well as the benefits and the replacement process, can
help alleviate confusion and enhance users' understanding and awareness, increasing
potential benefits of adopted smart meters. Additionally, communication and support
should be tailored to address the varying expectations and concerns of different user
groups. This personalized approach can help manage customer expectations and ensure a
smoother transition to the new technology.
Transparency is also crucial in addressing users' concerns about the contractual aspects
of smart meters. Energy supply companies should enhance transparency by clarifying any
changes in contracts, billing procedures, and how the technology affects energy usage. By
providing clear information, companies can alleviate customers' concerns and enhance
their trust in the technology. Furthermore, addressing technical issues promptly and
providing efficient and effective support to customers is essential to ensure reliable and
functional smart meters. By resolving technical challenges, energy supply companies can
enhance the reliability and perceived "smartness" of the meters, leading to greater user
satisfaction and further way of exploiting them.
Another recommendation is to leverage relevant social groups as channels for
disseminating accurate information and building trust in smart meters. Friends, family, and
neighbors play an influential role in shaping users' expectations and concerns. By engaging
these social groups and providing accurate information, energy supply companies can
address misconceptions and build trust in smart meters.
To further contribute to understanding of smart meter adoption and full utilization,
future research can explore several areas. Firstly, investigating the long-term impacts of
smart meter adoption on energy consumption behavior and cost savings can provide
insights into the effectiveness of the technology in promoting energy efficiency. Secondly,
comparing user perspectives and experiences across different countries and contexts can
help identify cultural and contextual factors influencing smart meter adoption. This can
inform the development of tailored strategies for different regions. Thirdly, exploring the
role of innovative communication strategies, such as social media or gamification, in
increasing user engagement with smart meters can provide insights into effective
communication approaches. Finally, examining the potential for smart meters to promote
sustainable energy practices and behaviors can contribute to the broader goals of energy
conservation and environmental sustainability.
By incorporating these improvements and conducting further research in these areas,
policymakers, energy supply companies, and other stakeholders can enhance user
engagement in smart meter programs. Understanding users' perspectives and addressing
their needs and expectations is crucial for the successful development, implementation, and
adoption of smart meters.
6. Conclusion and Future Work
In conclusion, this study contributes to understanding user engagement and obstacles to
adopting smart meters, particularly within the context of mandated implementation in
Sweden. Aligned with our research objectives, qualitative interviews with Swedish users
provided valuable insights into their perceptions of smart meter adoption. The findings,
building on twelve interviews, underscored the significance of users' interpretive flexibility
in shaping their perception of smart meters, especially considering the government-
mandated nature of implementation/adoption in Sweden. It became evident that various
social groups, including designers, energy suppliers, policymakers, regulators, and users,
hold distinct interests and perspectives that influence smart meter development and
utilization. Effective negotiation and collaboration among these groups are imperative to
address users' concerns and preferences and ensure successful integration into their lives
within the context of the government mandate.
The study findings highlight the importance of user awareness and understanding in
widespread smart meter adoption, even in a mandated context. To promote effective
adoption and engagement, providing accurate information, dispelling misconceptions, and
emphasizing benefits and functionalities are crucial. Additionally, employing effective
communication strategies and engagement initiatives involving relevant social groups are
essential to build trust and overcome potential barriers to adoption.
The practical implications of this study are significant for policymakers, energy
suppliers, and designers in Sweden. Based on the findings, policymakers should focus on
strategies that provide accurate and accessible information to users, address concerns, and
involve them in decision-making processes. Energy suppliers and designers should
consider diverse user perspectives and interests in smart meter development and
implementation, ensuring that user needs are met within the government-mandated
framework. Engaging in collaborative efforts and effective communication strategies with
stakeholders remain essential to enhance user engagement and promote successful
integration.
Focused on the Swedish context, where smart meter adoption is government-mandated,
presented findings may not fully capture experiences and perspectives in other settings.
Future research should conduct comparative studies to understand the impact of
government mandates on user attitudes and behaviors toward smart meter adoption.
Exploring long-term effects on energy consumption patterns and assessing effectiveness of
communication and engagement initiatives are crucial. Additionally, investigating
experiences of Swedish users who have adopted smart meters can offer insights into factors
influencing usage behavior, contributing to continuous improvement within the
government-mandated framework.
Acknowledgements
This work has been conducted within the program “Resistance and Effect – on the smart grid for
the many people” funded by the Kamprad Family Foundation.
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