Smart Metering: Implementation programme published

 

Alongside the Government’s response to the Smart Meters Prospectus consultation the Department for Energy and Climate Change also published its Smart Metering Implementation Programme, which sets out the overall strategy and timetable for the roll out of smart meters across Great Britain. The programme sets out two phases for implementation; a foundation stage which will involve the government working with industry and consumer groups to ensure the necessary ground work is covered, and a second phase which will see full mass roll-out. The fist phase will enable industry to build and test the systems required for full mass roll-out and will also be the phase in which the government establishes the Data and Communication Company, which will provide data and communication services for the smart meter scheme nation wide. Commenting on the publication of the programme the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, the Rt. Hon Chris Huhne said, “Smart meters are a key part of giving us all more control over how we use energy at home and at work, helping us to cut out waste and save money. In combination with our plans to reform the electricity market and introduce the Green Deal for home and businesses, the rollout of smart meters will help us keep the lights on while reducing emissions and getting the best possible deal for the consumer.” The roll-out of smart meters fits into the Government’s wider plans to establish a smart grid as part of the modernisation of the electricity system currently underway, which is required to bring new low carbon sources of energy online. The smart meter scheme will require the instillation of 53 million smart meters in 30 million homes and businesses across Britain, with an estimated £23 per year saving to the consumer by 2020, and a total of £7.3 billion net benefit to the nation over the next 20 years.

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