Britain’s energy watchdog Ofgem plans to require suppliers to pay automatic compensation to households whose smart meters fail to operate properly, addressing long-running consumer complaints about inaccurate readings and billing errors. The measure is intended to strengthen consumer protections as the country accelerates the rollout of smart meters. Separately, Energy Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh said the government will offer homeowners living close to new electricity pylons an annual discount of up to £250 on their energy bills. The incentive is designed to ease public opposition to new transmission lines needed to connect renewable-energy projects to the grid.