A recent BBC Panorama report highlights a growing issue with smart energy meters in northern England and Scotland, revealing that customers are facing significant connectivity problems. While meters in southern regions utilize reliable cellular technology, northern counterparts depend on faulty radio frequencies, leading to inaccurate readings and the necessity for manual submissions. Approximately 3.5 million smart meters nationwide are underperforming, despite a £13.5 billion installation cost. The government mandates energy suppliers to resolve these issues swiftly, yet consumers like Glasgow resident Hartesh Battu express frustration over unresolved technical shortcomings.