Households experiencing delays or failed installations of smart meters will now be entitled to £40 compensation as per new regulations effective today. Qualifying circumstances for the compensation include waiting over six weeks for a smart meter appointment.
Compensation will also be provided if an installation appointment is unsuccessful due to a supplier-controlled fault or if a supplier fails to address a reported issue within five working days.
The updated smart meter rules, implemented on February 23, aim to facilitate the widespread adoption of smart meters in UK households.
Currently, more than 70% of UK households have smart or advanced meters installed, according to government data. Over 900,000 non-operational smart meters have been repaired or replaced since 2024, as reported by the watchdog.
Melissa Giordano, Ofgem’s deputy director of systems and processes, emphasized the benefits of smart meters, such as accurate billing, cost-effective tariffs, and real-time energy monitoring. The new rules aim to ensure prompt and functional smart meter installations, setting clear expectations for suppliers and safeguarding consumers in case of issues.
In other news, energy bills are expected to decrease this spring, with Cornwall Insight forecasting a drop in the Ofgem price cap from £1,758 to £1,641 annually for a typical dual fuel household. Ofgem will announce the next price cap on February 25, covering the period from April 1 to June 30.
Consumers on standard variable rate tariffs will be protected by the Ofgem price cap if they are not tied to fixed rate deals. While there is no total cap on energy costs, the price cap limits charges for gas and electricity units, as well as fixed daily connection fees.
The price cap serves as an indicator of annual expenses for individuals with average energy consumption.
