Smart metering reaches 20 million premises across Britain

The national secure smart metering network, built, operated and maintained by the DCC is now connected to 20 million premises across Britain, a major milestone and achievement for the smart meter roll-out.

The 20 millionth connection was made to a home in Ayr, Scotland at around 1pm, 15 January, by EDF.

Smart meters allow households to monitor energy usage, save money, and reduce their carbon emissions. Smart meter users have access to the Demand Flexibility Service which incentivises consumers to shift their consumption from peak times, helping to balance the grid and reducing the need for additional fossil-fuel generation. 

With well over half of British homes connected to the national network, use of smart meters are preventing the release of over one million tonnes of carbon per year. This is equivalent to taking a million cars off the road.

Every extra premises connected increases the power and the possibilities that the network can deliver.

Penny Brown, Chief Operating Officer at DCC, said:

“I am so proud of all the work that has made today’s announcement possible, and tomorrow’s goals ever more attainable. Thanks are due to our colleagues, suppliers, and stakeholders, without whom this endeavour wouldn’t be possible. Together, we are helping Britain and British energy consumers to decarbonise and save money through smarter use of its energy.”

Rich Hughes, Director of Retail at EDF, said:

"We’re thrilled to have completed the 20 millionth smart meter connection. We’re determined to help our customers realise the benefits of smart meters—saving both cash and carbon. They enable us to launch initiatives like our Sunday Saver Challenge, where we give customers free electricity for reducing energy use during peak times and will be vital in delivering a flexible, greener grid in future."