http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-22205299
I like the idea of having the reading being sent back but having every burglar in the country knowing when I'm on Holiday is less compelling. Do you trust them to be able to keep this data under wraps?
I don't trust anyone to have control over my house without either my giving them permission and letting them in, or their gaining entry via the courts. This idea folk can control from their office what happens in my home is unacceptable. So no doubt all the public will be really keen on it.
My bills are never estimated. I take a reading of the meters every month and send them in online, so don't need one of the devices, but it doesn't look as though I'll be given the choice to opt out.