The Linky meter, deployed massively in France since 2015, was supposed to transform the management of electricity in homes. However, despite being installed in nearly 80% of homesits potential remains largely underexploited. Why are the French struggling to take advantage of this tool to reduce their energy consumption?
A colossal investment with mixed results
Enedis, the French electricity network manager, has dedicated 5.7 billion euros to the deployment of Linky meters. This initiative aimed to modernize the network and offer consumers better control of their consumption. Today, almost 39 million units are installed across France.
However, the expected benefits are slow to materialize. According to a report from the Court of Auditors published in November 2024, the savings made thanks to Linky amount on average to only 1%. This figure is a far cry from initial projections which promised significant reductions in energy bills.
Linky: Obstacles to mass adoption
Several factors explain the under-use of the Linky meter by the French:
- Lack of information : Many users are unaware of how to take full advantage of the features offered by their meter.
- Perceived complexity : Some people find the interface unintuitive and give up on it.
- Skepticism : Fears persist about a potential increase in bills due to more precise measurement of consumption.
- Ingrained habits : Changing your energy behaviors requires an effort that not everyone is ready to make.
Alicia Bassière, researcher at CentraleSupélec-Université Paris-Saclay, underlines: “ The meter makes it possible to identify the most energy-intensive devices in real time, which helps to adjust consumption and avoid excesses.“. However, this functionality remains unknown or unexploited by the majority of users.
Possible savings, but a necessary commitment
To take full advantage of the Linky meter and make real savings, consumers must adopt a proactive approach. Here are some effective strategies:
- Regular monitoring : Frequently consult your consumption via the online interface or the mobile application.
- Peak analysis : Identify times of high consumption to adjust your habits.
- Optimization of off-peak hours : Schedule energy-intensive appliances for times when electricity is cheaper.
- Anomaly detection : Quickly identify unusual increases in consumption.
The example of Danielle Rouault, a retiree interviewed by TF1, illustrates the challenge: although she installed her Linky meter in her garage and monitors her consumption, her bills have not decreased. This highlights the importance of going beyond simple observation to concrete action.
Towards a more intelligent use of Linky
To maximize the impact of the Linky meter on energy savings, several avenues can be studied:
User training : Targeted information campaigns could help consumers better understand and use their meter. Practical workshops or video tutorials could demystify the use of the Linky interface.
Pricing incentives : The implementation of more attractive dynamic pricing would encourage users to adapt their consumption to periods of lower demand on the network.
Technological innovation : The development of more intuitive and personalized mobile applications would facilitate the monitoring and optimization of daily consumption.
Ultimately, the Linky meter has considerable potential to help the French control their electricity consumption. On the other hand, its success will depend on the commitment of users and the support provided to fully exploit its capabilities. The challenge is high: transforming this massive investment into a real lever for savings and energy transition for French households.
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