Smart meters in the UK: free, what they do and whether you must have one

A smart meter automatically sends your electricity and gas readings to your supplier, so bills are based on actual use rather than guesswork. Great Britain has a government programme to install them, and consumers have clear rights.

How much does installation cost?

Nothing. Your supplier installs a smart meter for free — there is no separate charge for the device itself; like any equipment it is reflected in the overall tariff structure. To get one, contact your energy supplier or book an installation through Smart Energy GB.

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What are the benefits?

The main one is the end of “estimated” bills: you pay for what you actually use and do not have to submit readings yourself. It comes with an in-home display that shows your energy use in real time and helps you find ways to save. For prepayment customers, a smart meter lets you top up without going to a shop. It also opens access to flexible tariffs, such as dual-rate deals (cheaper at night).

Do I have to accept a smart meter?

Under the current rules the programme requires suppliers to offer smart meters, but it does not require a consumer to accept one — you can decline. Note, though, that support for old radio teleswitch (RTS) meters has ended, and your supplier should replace such a meter.

What happens to my data?

Your supplier uses the meter data to bill you and — only with your permission — to offer suitable tariffs. You can ask your supplier how often readings are taken and who the data is shared with, and limit how often it is sent.

What if there are problems?

If the meter stops recording or sending readings, Citizens Advice has step-by-step guidance; as a last resort, complain to your supplier and then to the Energy Ombudsman. If you are struggling to pay, ask your supplier for a payment plan — under Ofgem rules they must offer an affordable option.

What is the in-home display and why does it help?

Along with the meter you usually get a small screen (in-home display) that shows how much energy you are using right now, in money, and over the day. This helps you spot power-hungry appliances and cut your bill. The display works separately from the meter, but if it breaks, ask your supplier to replace it.

Does a smart meter keep working if you switch supplier?

Second-generation meters (SMETS2) should keep their smart functions when you move to another supplier. With older models there were cases where the meter dropped into “manual” mode after a switch. If after switching your meter stops sending readings automatically, contact the new supplier — they must restore it or replace the device.