Households experiencing delays or failed installations of smart meters will now be entitled to £40 in compensation following the implementation of new regulations starting today. The compensation will be automatic in specific situations, such as when a household has to wait over six weeks for a smart meter appointment.
Additionally, compensation will be provided if an installation appointment fails due to the supplier’s fault or if a supplier fails to address a reported issue within five working days. These stricter rules are aimed at supporting the ongoing deployment of smart meters to homes throughout the UK.
Recent government data reveals that more than 70% of UK households currently have either a smart meter or an advanced meter. The regulatory body reported that over 900,000 previously non-operational smart meters have been repaired or replaced since 2024.
According to Melissa Giordano, Ofgem’s deputy director of systems and processes, smart meters offer customers benefits such as accurate billing, cheaper tariffs, and real-time energy usage monitoring. She emphasized the importance of ensuring prompt and efficient smart meter installations for all customers.
In related news, energy bills are expected to decrease this spring, with Cornwall Insight predicting a drop in the Ofgem price cap from £1,758 to £1,641 annually 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 on a fixed-rate deal. While there is no total cap on energy costs, the price cap limits the charges for gas and electricity units, as well as daily standing charges for energy network connections.
The price cap figure serves as an indication of the expected annual cost for someone with average energy consumption.