Energy suppliers have until the end of 2023 to enrol first-generation smart meters onto the national communications network, or replace them with second-generation meters where enrolment is not possible, according to the Energy Ombudsman1. The work is carried out by the supplier and requires no action from the household1.
First-generation (SMETS1) meters were installed using third-party communications networks because the national network, managed by the Data Communications Company, was not ready when installation began1. All first-generation meters use a third-party network to send metering information to the supplier1. Second-generation (SMETS2) meters use the purpose-built national network and are now the type used for any new installation1. The difference matters because second-generation meters are cross-compatible: they keep their smart functions across all suppliers, so switching supplier does not change how the meter works1. With first-generation meters, consumers may lose smart functionality when transferring between suppliers, which the enrolment upgrade is intended to address1.
"If a supplier is unable to enrol a first-generation meter, it must replace it with a second-generation meter. You don’t have to take any action on this as the work will be completed by your supplier, who has until the end of 2023 to complete this."
The deadline sits within the four-year smart metering Targets Framework, which began on 1 January 2022 and sets suppliers individual minimum annual rollout targets for smart meter installations1. Under their licence conditions, suppliers must also take all reasonable steps to install a smart meter where a meter is fitted for the first time, or where an existing traditional meter needs replacing because of a fault1. There is currently no requirement for suppliers to install a smart meter on request, though households can contact their supplier to discuss availability in their area1.
| Meter type | Communications network | Behaviour on switching supplier |
|---|---|---|
| First-generation (SMETS1) | Third-party network | Smart functionality may be lost; being addressed by enrolment onto the national network1 |
| Second-generation (SMETS2) | National network managed by the Data Communications Company | Smart functions retained across all suppliers1 |
Why it matters for households
A first-generation meter that cannot be enrolled and is not replaced by the end of 2023 risks losing the functions that distinguish it from a traditional meter: automatic reading transmission, accurate billing rather than estimates, and access to time of use tariffs1. The Ombudsman notes that estimated billing can lead to large catch-up bills and debt, and that estimated bills and backbilling are common sources of complaints1. All smart meters can support tariffs charging different prices at different times of day and night, including Economy 7, with more complex tariffs such as Economy 10 also available1. For a household, the practical question is whether the meter in the property still reports readings and still supports the tariff it is on, and whether that continues after any change of supplier.
What happens next
The enrolment or replacement work is the supplier's responsibility and is due to be completed by the end of 20231. The Ombudsman states that the industry has developed a solution to in-home display signal problems, which was being trialled and due to be deployed from July 20231. It also states that industry has developed a technical solution for gas meters that cannot reach the communications hub, being trialled and due to be deployed from July 20231. No further dates beyond these have been reported.
Sources1 cited
- Resolve Your Smart Meter Disputes | Energy… | Energy Ombudsman, energyombudsman.org