The Utility Regulator has published a report on new research into smart meter rollouts in Great Britain (GB) and the Republic of Ireland (RoI), and the impact of these rollouts on consumer experience.
The purpose of the research was to understand the lessons learned from these rollouts, and to use this insight to shape the delivery of the best results possible for Northern Ireland consumers.
The Department for the Economy (DfE) undertook a cost-benefit analysis on smart metering in December 2022, which confirmed smart meters to be of an overall positive benefit for consumers. Following this, the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2023 set out the intent to finalise a plan for the implementation of smart meters in Northern Ireland.
DfE have today published a consultation on the 'Design plan for the roll-out of smart electricity meters'.
In order for smart meter rollout to be successful in Northern Ireland, we consider it crucial that we first understand the potential impact of the rollout on Northern Ireland consumers. This understanding would allow the process to be designed in a consumer-centric way, with the aim of delivering the best possible results for residents of Northern Ireland.
To support this, we commissioned LCP Delta to carry out research on smart meter rollouts in GB and RoI. As part of this work, the researchers:
- Engaged with key stakeholders who were involved in, or who have knowledge of, the design stage of the smart meter rollout in GB or RoI;
- Drew insights on what could have been improved upon at the design stage;
- Explored the experiences and impacts on consumers of the smart meter rollouts in GB and RoI;
- Proposed recommendations on how to avoid the problems encountered in other jurisdictions, and;
- Highlighted good practice identified elsewhere.
The overall aim of this work is to enable the development of a consumer centric approach to electricity smart meter implementation in Northern Ireland and to support the work of DfE in this area.