SMETS2 smart meter explained

A SMETS2 smart meter is the UK's second generation of energy meter, designed to keep its smart functions working even if you switch energy suppliers. These meters provide accurate, real-time data on your energy use, helping you understand and manage your consumption more effectively. The nationwide rollout of SMETS2 meters aims to modernise the UK's energy infrastructure, paving the way for a more efficient and flexible grid.

Discover how a SMETS2 smart meter can transform your home's energy management, and see how Fuse Energy can help you make the most of it. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

What is a SMETS2 smart meter?

SMETS2 stands for "Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications 2". These meters are an upgrade to older models, offering advanced features that empower householders with greater control over their energy. They are a crucial component in the UK's transition to a smarter, more responsive energy system.

The evolution of smart meters

The journey to smart meters began with SMETS1, the first generation. While SMETS1 meters brought many benefits, they often lost their smart functionality if a customer switched energy suppliers, reverting to basic meters that required manual readings. SMETS2 meters were developed to overcome this limitation, ensuring seamless operation regardless of your energy provider. This evolution reflects a commitment to a truly integrated and future-proof energy network.

How SMETS2 meters work

SMETS2 meters communicate directly with your energy supplier through a secure national network, known as the Data Communications Company (DCC). This network ensures your energy usage data is sent automatically and securely, eliminating the need for manual meter readings. The meters record your electricity and gas consumption in near real-time, displaying it on an in-home display (IHD) and making it accessible through your supplier's app or online portal. This constant flow of information allows for precise billing and provides the insights needed to make informed decisions about your energy use.

SMETS1 vs SMETS2: key differences

The primary distinction between SMETS1 and SMETS2 meters lies in their ability to maintain smart functionality across different energy suppliers. This difference is significant for householders seeking flexibility and continuous access to their energy data.

Staying smart when you switch

SMETS1 meters were often tied to the original energy supplier's network. If you switched providers, your SMETS1 meter might lose its smart capabilities, meaning you would go back to submitting manual readings. SMETS2 meters, however, are designed to retain their smart functionality, including sending automatic readings, even if a customer switches energy suppliers. This ensures a smooth transition and uninterrupted access to your energy data, regardless of who supplies your power.

Enhanced data security and reliability

SMETS2 meters operate on a dedicated, secure network managed by the DCC, which is separate from the public internet. This infrastructure provides enhanced data security, protecting your personal energy consumption information. The improved reliability of the SMETS2 network also means fewer communication dropouts, ensuring consistent data transmission and accurate billing. Ofgem, the energy regulator for Great Britain, oversees the smart meter rollout and sets standards for data privacy and security.

Benefits of a SMETS2 smart meter

Installing a SMETS2 smart meter offers several tangible benefits, transforming how you interact with your energy supply and empowering you to manage it more effectively.

Accurate billing and real-time insights

With a SMETS2 meter, your energy supplier receives automatic, accurate readings, virtually eliminating estimated bills. This means you only pay for the energy you actually use. Furthermore, the real-time data provided by your meter, often displayed on an in-home display or accessible via an app, gives you immediate insights into your consumption patterns. You can see how much energy you are using and how much it is costing, helping you identify areas where you can make changes.

Empowering energy management

Access to real-time data empowers you to take control of your energy usage. By understanding when and how you consume energy, you can make conscious decisions to reduce waste. For example, you might identify energy-hungry appliances or adjust your habits to use energy during off-peak times if you are on a time-of-use tariff. This proactive approach can lead to more efficient energy use and potentially lower bills.

Future-proofing your home

SMETS2 meters are a foundational technology for the future of energy. They are compatible with a range of smart home devices and can facilitate participation in innovative tariffs that reward flexible energy use. As the energy system evolves, a SMETS2 meter ensures your home is ready to benefit from advancements like smart charging for electric vehicles or optimising solar panel and battery storage systems, aligning with a vision of abundant, controlled energy management.

How to get and use your SMETS2 meter

Getting a SMETS2 meter is a straightforward process, and once installed, understanding how to use its data can unlock significant benefits.

Requesting a free upgrade

Energy suppliers are responsible for offering and installing SMETS2 smart meters free of charge to eligible customers. If you do not yet have a SMETS2 meter, you can contact your current energy supplier to request an upgrade. They will arrange an appointment for a qualified engineer to install the new meter at no cost to you. This upgrade is part of the national smart meter rollout programme, aiming to modernise energy infrastructure across the UK.

Understanding your meter readings

Your SMETS2 meter will typically come with an in-home display (IHD) that shows your energy consumption in real-time. This display usually cycles through different screens, showing your current usage, historical data, and estimated costs. Familiarise yourself with these readings to gain a better understanding of your energy habits. Most energy suppliers also provide access to your detailed usage data through their online accounts or mobile apps, allowing for deeper analysis.

Maximising your smart meter with the Fuse app

When paired with a modern energy app like Fuse, your SMETS2 meter provides unprecedented control and transparency over your energy. The Fuse app can integrate with your SMETS2 data, allowing you to track consumption, understand patterns, and make "power plays" with your energy usage. This integration transforms energy from a source of anxiety into a tool for empowerment, helping you make informed decisions and align with a future where energy is abundant and controlled. Fuse facilitates free SMETS2 smart meter upgrades, making the path to empowered energy management accessible and straightforward for its customers.

Addressing common concerns and older meters

It is natural to have questions about new technology. Addressing common concerns and understanding the transition from older meter types is key to embracing SMETS2.

Data privacy and security

Ofgem, the energy regulator for Great Britain, oversees the smart meter rollout and sets standards for meter functionality and consumer protection. Your energy data is securely transmitted through the dedicated DCC network, ensuring it is protected. You also have control over how your data is used and can choose how frequently your meter sends readings to your supplier. Smart meters are designed with privacy in mind, only sending consumption data and not information about your activities within the home.

What about older meters like RTS?

The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) signal, used by older meters, is being phased out across the UK, with the industry-wide switch-off beginning on 30 June 2025. These legacy RTS meters rely on a longwave radio signal to switch between peak and off-peak rates, a technology that is now outdated. Energy suppliers are required to replace these meters with smart meters for affected customers. If you have an RTS meter, your current supplier will contact you to arrange a free upgrade to a smart meter, ensuring you maintain access to flexible tariffs and modern energy management tools.

Ready to take control of your home's energy with a SMETS2 smart meter? Fuse Energy offers clear pricing, real-time usage data through our app, and 24/7 human customer support. Switching to Fuse is quick and easy, helping you unlock a smarter energy experience. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. To learn more about our mission for abundant energy, click here.