Buenchico, the energy suppliers have every choice not "They've no real choice".
If a customer doesn't want one installed , they don't have to. The customer merely has to tell their supplier they don't want one and that will be the end of the matter. No one will force a smart meter upon a consumer.
The link you provided said as much under the heading "Supplier led roll-out". Note the final sentence:
"But there is no legal obligation on individuals to have one"
So everyone is entitled to decline the installation if they so wish and that is with the backing of the government.