More than 8.2m SMETS2 smart meters now installed

More than 8.2 million second-generation (SMETS2) smart meters are now connected to the Data Communications Company’s (DCC) network, the latest figures show.

According to the DCC’s data dashboard, the current average daily connection rate for SMETS2 meters is 17,877.

Almost 4.3 million first-generation (SMETS1) meters have also been connected and in June more than 493 million messages were sent across the company’s network.

Furthermore, DCC estimates that over the past year 362,408 tonnes of C02 have been collectively saved by the devices on its network.

DCC chief executive Angus Flett said: “There’s significant momentum behind the smart meter rollout, with almost 2 million second-generation meters installed in 2021 alone – that’s great progress given the complex circumstances of lockdown, and a real credit to the hard work of our customers, the energy companies and network operators.

“Driving forward in this vital national infrastructure programme will support Britain’s journey to net zero greenhouse gas emissions, and will help to protect energy consumers by facilitating a fairer, competitive market.”

In total, more than 12.5 million smart meter devices in nearly 7.7 million homes are connected to the network. British Gas was revealed to be the supplier which installed the 12 millionth meter in May this year.

According to the latest government figures, at the end of March 2021 there were 24.2 million smart and advanced meters in homes and small businesses across Great Britain, representing 44 per cent smart coverage.