The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has announced the formal closure of the Industry and Supplier Forum (IMF) and the Joint Industry Plan (JIP) with effect from 15 September 2026.
The IMF and JIP have played a significant role in supporting the smart meter rollout, providing a collaborative forum for industry, Government and stakeholders to identify, escalate and manage issues affecting programme delivery. Over the years, these arrangements have helped facilitate engagement, coordination and oversight across the smart metering landscape.
DESNZ has advised that the decision reflects the progress made in the smart meter programme and the evolution of governance and stakeholder engagement arrangements now in place across the sector. The Department considers that existing governance structures provide the appropriate mechanisms for oversight and engagement going forward.
While the IMF and JIP have now closed, DESNZ has confirmed its continued commitment to overseeing programme delivery and engaging with stakeholders on policy and implementation matters. Should future developments require enhanced coordination or issue management, the Department has indicated that similar governance arrangements could be established to support effective oversight and industry engagement.
No further IMF meetings will be convened, and any outstanding matters will be transitioned to the appropriate owners and managed through existing governance processes.