The project will see Smart Energy GB lead the public engagement campaign to support the roll-out of new technology to change the way the British public buys and uses its gas and electricity.
More than 50 million smart meters will be installed by energy suppliers in 26 million homes across Great Britain between now and 2020. Smart meters will help people control the way they use energy in their homes, and offer an alternative to estimated bills and meter readings.
The new meters will be installed at no extra cost to consumers and Smart Energy GB’s task is to engage every household in Scotland, England and Wales during the campaign.
Claire Maugham, director of comms at Smart Energy GB, said: "The national smart meter roll-out is one of the most important infrastructure projects of our generation. Smart meters are an essential technology upgrade, which will transform the experience of buying gas and electricity, especially for people on low incomes or using pre-payment meters.
"We were immediately impressed with Third City’s comprehensive approach to this exciting task, along with the team’s creative ideas and previous experience with national campaigns."
Graz Belli, founding partner at Third City, said: "As far as behaviour change campaigns go, they don’t get much bigger than this. We’re excited by the scale and challenge of the project, and driven by the belief that this programme will have a hugely positive impact on the nation – transforming the relationship we have with energy."
In September last year, Smart Energy GB appointed former Prime Minister's Office and Cabinet Office comms adviser, Lucy Maggs, as its new head of media. Maggs oversaw the pitch process for PR support.
Third City joins AMV and PhD providing creative campaign development and media buying, along with stakeholder engagement specialists Westminster Advisers.
