Martin Brailsford, Author at Association of Meter Operators

Consultation on the Decommissioning of the Market Domain Data Service

Posted on 14th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

The electricity industry is being invited to provide feedback on proposals to decommission the Market Domain Data (MDD) service as the transition to Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) progresses.

MDD has historically played a key role in supporting settlement, registration, and data exchange processes across the market. However, with Industry Standing Data (ISD) now established as the single source of truth under the MHHS framework, MDD is expected to become a static historical dataset as migration activities conclude.

The consultation will be of particular interest to organisations that currently use MDD, including suppliers, metering agents, Licensed Distribution System Operators (LDSOs), Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs), and industry service providers.

Under the proposal, all remaining MDD entities would be frozen at MHHS Milestone 15 in May 2027. While several data entities have already been frozen, Milestone 15 represents the point at which no further updates would be permitted across the MDD dataset. The industry would then rely on ISD as the authoritative source for market information, supporting:

Settlement and registration processes.
Validation of information exchanged between market participants.
Message routing and data exchange through the Data Integration Platform (DIP).

The proposed change forms part of the wider MHHS implementation programme, which will see meter migrations completed by May 2027 (Milestone 15), followed by the transition to the new settlement timetable in July 2027 (Milestone 16).

Organisations that utilise MDD are encouraged to review the proposals and consider any operational, technical, or governance impacts arising from the service’s decommissioning.

The consultation is open until 17:00 on 26 October 2026.

Ofgem Consults on Smart Data Repository Governance Framework

Posted on 14th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

Ofgem has launched a consultation on the proposed governance and legal framework for the Smart Data Repository (SDR), a key component of the UK’s evolving energy digitalisation landscape. The consultation seeks views on licence and code modifications required to establish and operate the SDR, which will support secure access to smart meter consumption data and underpin future innovation across the energy sector.

The SDR is being developed as part of the Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) programme and will be operated by Elexon. Its primary role will be to store, manage and share half-hourly electricity consumption data, creating a long-term repository that extends beyond the 13 months of data currently held on smart meters. Ofgem believes this approach offers a cost-effective and efficient means of enabling wider access to valuable energy data while supporting the objectives of the Energy Digitalisation Framework.

A key feature of the proposed solution is its integration with RECCo’s Consumer Consent Solution (CCS), allowing consumers to provide explicit consent for authorised third parties to access their energy data. This is expected to facilitate the development of new services, support greater consumer participation in energy markets, and improve access to data-driven insights for organisations across the sector.

Ofgem is proposing amendments to the Energy System Operator Licence and supplier licence conditions to provide a clear legal basis for the SDR’s operation and governance. The consultation also considers how data privacy, security, proportionality and oversight arrangements should be managed as access to energy data expands. Previous industry discussions have highlighted the importance of consistent data governance practices while recognising that different datasets may require different levels of control and protection.

Improved access to high-quality smart meter data could support enhanced asset management, meter health monitoring, settlement processes, consumer services and future flexibility markets. Industry stakeholders have also highlighted the importance of interoperability between the SDR, CCS and other emerging data platforms to ensure efficient and consistent use of energy data across the sector.

The consultation closes on 19 October 2026, with Ofgem inviting responses from suppliers, code bodies, consumer groups and data users.

Further information: Ofgem Smart Data Repository Consultation [ofgem.gov.uk]

Smart Metering Reaches 2 Million 4G Communications Hub Milestone

Posted on 10th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

The smart metering industry has achieved another significant milestone with the installation of the two millionth 4G Communications Hub in Great Britain.

The landmark installation was completed in Cheshunt by AMO Member, British Gas, demonstrating the remarkable pace at which the transition to next-generation smart metering communications is progressing. Having only recently celebrated the installation of the first million 4G Communications Hubs, the industry has now doubled that figure in a relatively short period, with approximately 12,000 hubs currently being installed every day across homes and businesses.

This achievement highlights the scale of the national rollout and the collective effort being delivered by energy suppliers, meter operators, installers and technology partners. More than two million properties are now benefiting from the enhanced communications capabilities that 4G technology brings to the smart metering network.

The transition to 4G is delivering tangible improvements across Great Britain’s smart metering infrastructure. Enhanced communications performance, improved reliability and greater network coverage are helping to support a more robust and resilient smart metering ecosystem. The technology also offers operational efficiencies that can reduce costs while supporting the long-term sustainability of the smart metering programme.

Importantly, this milestone reflects the strong collaboration that exists across the industry. Suppliers, installers and communications partners have all played a key role in driving the rollout forward, with organisations including Toshiba and VodafoneThree continuing to support deployment at scale.

While the installation of two million 4G Communications Hubs is an impressive achievement in its own right, it also marks an important step in the wider modernisation of Great Britain’s energy infrastructure. As the rollout continues, 4G communications technology will play a vital role in supporting reliable smart metering services, enabling improved customer experiences and helping to underpin the future of a smarter, more connected energy system.

For the metering industry, the milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation and sustained investment, providing a strong foundation for the next phase of smart metering deployment across Great Britain.

MHHS Programme Reaches 20.2 Million Meter Migrations

Posted on 7th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

The Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) Programme has announced that 20.2 million meter migrations had been successfully completed as of 28 August 2026, representing approximately 60% of all meters within scope. This marks a significant milestone in the industry’s transition towards more accurate, data-driven electricity settlement arrangements.

With approximately 34 weeks remaining until the completion of migration activities, scheduled for 7 May 2027 under MHHS Milestone 15, supplier migration volumes continue to align with the programme’s agreed migration framework. The progress achieved demonstrates sustained industry commitment and provides growing confidence that the programme remains on track to deliver its implementation objectives.

For metering stakeholders, the continued pace of migration highlights the increasing importance of robust meter data collection, data quality assurance, and operational readiness across the end-to-end settlement chain. As migration volumes accelerate towards completion, Meter Asset Managers, Meter Operators, Data Services providers and suppliers will need to maintain a strong focus on data integrity, customer support, and efficient management of any migration-related issues.

The successful migration of over 20 million meters represents a major step towards the delivery of a smarter, more flexible electricity system. Once fully implemented, MHHS is expected to support improved settlement accuracy, enable more innovative tariffs and demand-side flexibility services, and contribute to the efficient operation of Britain’s transition to a low-carbon energy future.

Ofwat Launches Vision for the Future of Water

Posted on 7th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

Ofwat’s latest initiative, The future of water starts with all of us, highlights the need for a more sustainable, resilient and customer-focused water sector capable of meeting growing environmental and population pressures. The regulator is calling for greater collaboration across the industry, government, communities and consumers to secure long-term water resources and improve the performance of water services.

For the metering sector, the message is particularly significant. Water metering is recognised as a key enabler of demand reduction, helping customers better understand their consumption while supporting more efficient use of water resources. As water companies increasingly deploy smart technologies, opportunities are emerging to apply lessons learned from the electricity and gas smart metering programmes, including data management, consumer engagement, installation practices, asset assurance and operational efficiency.

The direction of travel aligns closely with wider sustainability and net zero objectives. Greater adoption of advanced water metering solutions can support leakage reduction, improve consumption insights, enable faster fault detection and help customers make informed decisions about water use. As the water sector accelerates its digital transformation, metering technology is expected to play an increasingly important role in delivering the resilient, efficient and environmentally sustainable water system envisaged by Ofwat.

From a Metering UK perspective, the growing focus on water metering presents opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and knowledge sharing. The expertise developed through electricity, gas and smart metering programmes could help support the evolution of water metering infrastructure, contributing to improved customer outcomes and the delivery of broader environmental goal

Ofgem Publishes New DCC Remuneration Policy Guidance

Posted on 7th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

Ofgem has published new guidance outlining its expectations for how the Data Communications Company (DCC) links senior manager remuneration to organisational performance, operational delivery and value for consumers. Issued under the Smart Meter Communication Licence, the policy establishes a framework for the development, application and review of DCC remuneration arrangements.

The guidance emphasises that remuneration should be connected to both organisational and individual performance, with a clear focus on delivering positive outcomes for consumers. This forms part of Ofgem’s broader approach to strengthening accountability and governance across critical energy sector infrastructure.

As the central communications provider supporting Great Britain’s smart metering system, DCC plays a key role in industry operations. The new policy reinforces expectations that leadership incentives align with reliable service delivery, operational performance and the effective management of smart metering services. Stakeholders may wish to monitor how the policy influences future performance measures, reporting requirements and strategic priorities within the smart metering sector.

Ofgem’s new guidance seeks to ensure that DCC senior management rewards are closely aligned with operational performance, service delivery and the creation of value for consumers, reinforcing accountability across the smart metering ecosystem.

Gas Safety Week 2026: Take No Chances

Posted on 7th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

Gas Safety Week returns this September with a clear and important message: “Take No Chances.” The annual national campaign, led by Gas Safe Register, brings together organisations across the energy, housing, utilities and safety sectors to promote gas safety awareness and help protect consumers from avoidable risks associated with unsafe gas appliances.

The campaign serves as a reminder that gas safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are a homeowner, landlord, housing provider, engineer, metering professional or energy supplier, everyone has a role to play in helping keep homes and communities safe. This year’s theme encourages consumers not to ignore warning signs, to act promptly when concerns arise, and to ensure that gas work is always carried out by appropriately qualified and registered professionals.

For the UK’s metering sector, safety remains at the heart of every customer interaction. Meter operators, metering technicians and field engineers regularly enter customers’ homes and businesses, placing them in a unique position to identify potential safety concerns and reinforce important gas safety messages. While metering professionals are not responsible for servicing gas appliances, they contribute significantly to the industry’s broader commitment to consumer safety through vigilance, reporting processes and engagement with customers.

Unsafe or poorly maintained gas appliances can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide remains particularly dangerous because it cannot be seen, smelt or tasted, making consumer awareness and preventative action essential. Previous Gas Safety Week campaigns have consistently emphasised the importance of regular appliance servicing, the use of qualified Gas Safe registered engineers, and the installation and testing of carbon monoxide alarms.

Gas Safety Week also provides an opportunity for organisations across the energy sector to demonstrate their commitment to public safety. The campaign toolkit contains a range of resources, including social media content, articles, graphics and awareness materials that organisations can use to engage customers and employees throughout the week. Supporters are encouraged to share safety messages, raise awareness of common hazards and help ensure that consumers know where to seek trusted advice.

The Association of Meter Operators (AMO) is proud to support initiatives that promote safe working practices and protect consumers. As the energy sector continues to evolve through smart metering, digitalisation and the transition to a lower-carbon future, maintaining a strong safety culture remains paramount. Gas Safety Week provides a valuable opportunity to reinforce this commitment and encourage continued collaboration across the industry.

AMO encourages members to support Gas Safety Week 2026 by sharing campaign materials, discussing gas safety with customers where appropriate, and helping to promote the simple but vital message: Take No Chances.

For further information and campaign resources, visit the official Gas Safety Week website and download the free supporter toolkit.

Key Messages

Gas Safety Week 2026 runs from 14 to 20 September 2026.
The 2026 campaign theme is “Take No Chances.”
Always use a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer for gas work.
Ensure gas appliances are regularly maintained and safety checked.
Install and regularly test carbon monoxide alarms.
Never ignore signs that a gas appliance may be unsafe.

New Low Carbon Technology Devices Added to ENA Connect Direct

Posted on 4th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

Energy Networks Association (ENA) has expanded the capabilities of its Connect Direct platform, enabling installers to submit low carbon technology (LCT) applications for electric boilers, air conditioning units and plug-in solar devices. These additions build on the platform’s existing support for EV chargepoints, solar PV installations and heat pumps, further streamlining the connection application process for a wider range of technologies.

The enhancement supports the continued electrification of heat and transport, providing installers with a more efficient route for obtaining network approvals and reducing administrative burdens. With auto-approval rates reportedly reaching up to 40% for eligible applications, the platform is helping to accelerate the deployment of low carbon technologies while improving customer experience.

A further improvement allows installers to access more detailed information on applications that have been escalated for network assessment. This increased transparency should help installers better manage customer expectations by providing greater clarity on application status and next steps.

For the metering sector, the ongoing growth of LCT installations is expected to increase the importance of accurate metering, network visibility and data management as electricity demand patterns evolve. The continued development of digital connection processes such as Connect Direct will support industry efforts to deliver a more efficient and customer-focused transition to a low-carbon energy system.

IGEM/G/4 Edition 3 – Definitions for the Gas Industry

Posted on 4th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) has published IGEM/G/4 Edition 3 – Definitions for the Gas Industry, providing a single, consistent source of terminology for use across IGEM standards and guidance documents. The new edition seeks to address historic variations in terminology that have developed across standards over time, establishing a common reference point that supports consistency, regulatory alignment, and current industry best practice.

For AMO gas members, the publication is particularly relevant as it introduces a standardised approach to definitions that will apply to IGEM standards published from 1 April 2026 onwards where individual definitions are not provided within the specific standard. Existing standards published before this date will continue to use their existing definitions until they are revised, withdrawn, or superseded. This transitional approach aims to minimise disruption while improving industry-wide consistency.

The document has direct relevance to gas metering activities. IGEM confirms that the standard should be read alongside IGEM/G/1 – Defining the Boundaries Between the Network, Primary Meter Installation and Installation Pipework, recognising the importance of established metering definitions that have been accepted by Ofgem for use within Great Britain. The alignment between IGEM/G/4 and IGEM/G/1 will help ensure consistent interpretation of metering responsibilities, asset boundaries, and industry terminology across operational, engineering, and regulatory environments.

The scope of the standard extends beyond natural gas to include LPG, LPG/air systems, biomethane, hydrogen and hydrogen blends, reflecting the evolving energy landscape and supporting future decarbonisation activities. For AMO members involved in metering, asset management, network interfaces, or emerging hydrogen projects, the publication provides greater clarity and consistency as the industry prepares for a more diverse gas mix.

While the publication does not introduce new operational requirements, it provides an important reference point that will improve consistency across future technical standards, support clearer interpretation of metering arrangements, and help reduce ambiguity when implementing new gas industry requirements. Members should consider reviewing internal procedures, technical documentation, and training materials to ensure terminology remains aligned with the latest industry definitions.

Smart Meter Statistics Q2 2026

Posted on 4th September 2026 by Martin Brailsford

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published its latest quarterly Smart Meter Statistics covering activity to the end of June 2026. The statistics confirm continued progress in the smart meter rollout across Great Britain, with more than 42 million smart and advanced meters now operating in homes and small businesses, representing 72% of all meters. Of the approximately 40 million smart meters in operation, 92% are operating in smart mode, maintaining a high level of functionality across the installed estate.

A significant development in this release is the introduction of smart meter replacement installation data, published retrospectively from 2022 onwards. This provides, for the first time, a comprehensive view of total installation activity, capturing both new smart meter installations and the replacement of existing smart and advanced meters. DESNZ reported that between April and June 2026, approximately 1.1 million smart and advanced meters were installed, comprising around 525,000 new installations and 570,000 replacement installations. Notably, replacement activity now exceeds new installations, highlighting the increasing maturity of the smart metering estate and the industry’s transition from deployment towards asset lifecycle management and ongoing operational performance.

The report also introduces several improvements designed to enhance accessibility and usability. The publication has moved from a PDF-based format to HTML, aligning with wider GOV.UK publishing standards. Supporting datasets have been restructured into tidy-data formats, making analysis easier for industry participants, researchers, and organisations using data analytics tools. These changes are intended to improve transparency and support deeper analysis of smart meter performance and installation trends.]

For meter operators and industry stakeholders, the statistics reinforce the changing nature of the smart metering programme. While rollout activity remains substantial, attention is increasingly focused on maintaining smart functionality, replacing ageing assets, ensuring compatibility with evolving communications technologies, and supporting long-term operational performance. The introduction of replacement activity reporting provides greater visibility of these emerging priorities and reflects the sector’s shift from large-scale deployment towards optimisation of an established smart metering asset base.

The next quarterly update, covering activity to the end of September 2026, is scheduled for publication on 26 November 2026.

The Q2 2026 statistics demonstrate that the smart metering programme is entering a new phase of maturity. The fact that replacement installations now outnumber new installations highlights the growing importance of meter asset management, communications hub upgrades, smart functionality retention, and operational excellence. For Meter Operators, this transition is likely to drive increased focus on workforce capability, service quality, logistics, technology refresh programmes, and the efficient management of meter exchanges to ensure consumers continue to realise the full benefits of smart metering.