Households experiencing delays or failed installations of smart meters will now receive £40 in compensation as per new regulations that have taken effect today. Qualifying circumstances for this compensation include waiting more than six weeks for a smart meter appointment.
Additionally, compensation will be provided if an installation appointment fails due to issues within the supplier’s control or if a supplier fails to address a reported issue within five working days.
These stricter rules on smart meters have been implemented today to facilitate the ongoing deployment of smart meters in households throughout the UK.
Over 70% of households in the UK currently have smart meters or advanced meters, according to government data. The regulatory body reported that over 900,000 previously non-functioning smart meters have been repaired or replaced since 2024.
Melissa Giordano, Ofgem’s deputy director of systems and processes, emphasized the benefits of smart meters, including accurate billing, cost-effective tariffs, and real-time energy consumption monitoring. She stressed the importance of promptly providing smart meters to interested customers and ensuring their immediate functionality.
In related news, energy bills are anticipated to decrease this spring, with Cornwall Insight predicting a reduction in Ofgem’s price cap from £1,758 annually to £1,641 for a typical dual fuel household. Ofgem is set to announce the next price cap on February 25, covering the period from April 1 to June 30.
Consumers on a standard variable rate tariff will be protected by the Ofgem price cap if they are not locked into a fixed-rate deal. However, there is no absolute cap on energy costs, as bills are still determined by actual energy usage.
The Ofgem price cap limits the charges for gas and electricity units as well as fixed daily standing charges for energy network connection. This cap figure represents the expected annual payment for an individual with average energy consumption.