A Guide to the Smart Meter Code of Practice

Smart meters are a considerable boon for both domestic consumers and businesses, allowing real-time monitoring of energy usage. Energy companies' installation and management of smart meters are covered by regulations that you should understand. 

These meters are advanced energy monitoring devices that provide real-time usage data, helping consumers manage their consumption and, therefore, reduce costs. They eliminate manual readings and ensure accurate billing by automatically transmitting usage information to suppliers.

The rules under which they’re regulated are called the Smart Meter Code of Practice, and following these is crucial for ensuring proper installation, data security, and compliance with industry standards. This guarantees accurate readings and fair charges. 

What is the Smart Meter Code of Practice?

The Smart Meter Code of Practice sets standards for smart meter installations, ensuring accuracy, safety, and consumer protection. Its primary purpose is to regulate installation practices, ensuring suppliers provide a reliable, consistent service while educating consumers on meter functionality.

The Practice establishes guidelines for meter installation to prevent errors, enhance safety, and maintain compliance with industry regulations. By following these standards, installers can reduce the risks associated with faulty installations and ensure transparency in energy pricing. Billing should more accurately represent actual usage.

A standardised approach across the UK is crucial for maintaining uniformity in service quality. Consistent procedures promote efficiency, consumer trust, and alignment with national sustainability goals, while adhering to these guidelines also helps the transition to a smarter energy infrastructure, enhancing accuracy in billing and encouraging responsible consumption. 

Smart Meter Installation Requirements

Installing smart meters requires adherence to strict technical guidelines and safety in order to ensure accuracy, security, and compliance with regulations. This is the process involved for getting one installed, from the perspective of the suppliers themselves:

1. Pre-installation assessment: Engineers inspect the existing meter set-up and confirm its compatibility with smart meter systems.

2. Installation process: Properly connect smart meters to the water, gas, or electricity supply, ensuring secure fittings and correct calibration.

3. Commissioning & testing: Engineers validate accurate data transmission between the smart meter and the supplier’s network.

4. Consumer guidance: Installers provide users with operational instructions, covering functionality and energy-saving benefits.

Installers must follow safety protocols. For electrical smart meters, these include compliance with IET Wiring Regulations, which ensure correct voltage and phase connection to prevent overloads. 

Gas smart meters include leak detection procedures, secure pipe fittings, and adherence to Gas Safe Register standards to prevent hazards. All meter installations must prioritise data security, with encryption and secure communication methods protecting consumer data from unauthorised access.

There is, of course, considerable regulatory oversight of this particular sector. Ofgem sets industry regulations and ensures compliance with smart meter rollout standards. The oversee government policies related to smart meters and energy efficiency. And the Smart Energy Code (SEC) defines communication protocols and data protection measures for smart meter networks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Smart Meter Installation

So, what happens when a smart meter is installed, and is there anything that you need to do? Here’s a step-by-step guide: 

1. Initial Consultation: Energy suppliers contact customers to schedule installation, explaining benefits and checking meter eligibility.

2. Pre-installation Preparation: Businesses should ensure clear access to meter locations and notify staff about potential short-term power or gas disruptions.

3. Engineer Arrival & Site Inspection: A certified installer assesses existing meters to ensure safe conditions and compatibility with smart technology.

4. Meter Replacement & Installation: The old meter is removed and replaced with a smart meter, securely fitted to the existing system.

5. System Testing & Data Connection: The new meter is connected to the supplier’s network, tested for accurate readings, and configured to transmit real-time usage data.

6. Consumer Guidance & Setup: Installers provide instructions on how to monitor energy usage via in-home displays and supplier apps.

7. Post-Installation Support: Suppliers offer ongoing guidance, ensuring proper functionality and addressing queries.

Installation is fairly straightforward. It usually takes 1-2 hours, though brief service interruptions may be necessary. Businesses can help to assist a seamless transition by securing electrical access, providing staff notification, and planning for potential downtime to minimise disruption.

Smart Metering Implementation Programme in the UK

As of 2025, the UK’s Smart Metering Implementation Programme has installed over 25 million smart meters, although rollout remains below initial government targets. The programme aims to enhance energy efficiency by providing real-time consumption data, reducing reliance on estimated billing.

Energy suppliers have continued installing solar panels for homes and businesses, while government oversight has sought to ensure that suppliers meet annual installation targets, with a focus on consumer education and accessibility.

You should be aware of a couple of key milestones and deadline dates. By June 2025, outdated Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters will stop functioning, requiring upgrades to smart meters. By the end of 2025, revised government targets aim for 80% of homes and 73% of small businesses to have smart meters.

Smart Meter Regulations and Consumer Rights

The Smart Metering Installation Code of Practice and Ofgem regulations also safeguard business consumers.

Businesses have the right to schedule installations at convenient times, with energy suppliers providing prior notice. Delays must be communicated to ensure minimal disruption. Smart meter installations are typically free, and suppliers are prohibited from adding hidden fees. Businesses should, however, still verify any potential costs for additional upgrades.

Data privacy and security are also very important. Consumers retain control over their energy usage data. The Smart Energy Code mandates encryption and secure transmission, preventing unauthorised access. Suppliers must obtain consent for data sharing beyond operational needs. Engineers also have to follow strict safety protocols, providing clear guidance and addressing concerns. Non-compliance with the rules should be reported to Ofgem.

Smart meters are the future of this technology, and the benefits they can offer can far outweigh any inconvenience caused by having them installed in the first place. Getting them installed can allow for better and more accurate billing and the real-time identification of any issues with your supply. If you haven’t taken this step forward yet, now is the best time to do so!