The REC Metering Expert Panel (RECMEP), a key sub-committee under the Retail Energy Code (REC), is inviting nominations to fill a recently vacated Supplier seat.

RECMEP plays a vital role in shaping metering arrangements across the energy industry. Its responsibilities include:

• Reviewing and voting on metering-related change proposals
• Maintaining Category 3 operational products
• Addressing industry-wide metering issues

With the Supplier seat now vacant, the Code Manager has issued a call for nominations. This is an opportunity for suppliers to actively contribute to the governance and development of metering standards that impact the entire market.

The guide, published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 8 August 2025, outlines what consumers in England, Scotland, and Wales should expect throughout the smart meter journey—from installation to post-installation support [1].

Key Areas Covered:

• Installation Standards: Energy suppliers must follow clear standards when arranging and conducting smart meter installations. This includes providing advance notice, ensuring installers are properly trained, and offering flexible appointment times.
• Consumer Rights: Customers have the right to decline a smart meter, request a specific type (e.g. prepay or credit), and expect clear communication about how the meter works.
• Post-Installation Support: If issues arise after installation, suppliers are expected to resolve them promptly. The guide includes steps for consumers to follow if they experience problems.
• Maximising Benefits: Consumers are encouraged to explore flexible tariffs and energy-saving features enabled by smart meters [1] [2].

You can access the full guide here [1].

References

[1] Smart meters: Your rights and expectations – GOV.UK

[2] How to get the most from your smart meter – GOV.UK

The government publication comprises several research and analysis documents that evaluate how smart meters are delivering benefits to consumers. It tracks progress since the rollout began and includes insights into the customer journey, installation experience, and consumer satisfaction.

Key Findings and Themes

1. Consumer Benefits Realisation
   • Smart meters offer direct benefits such as more accurate billing, better energy usage tracking, and easier switching between suppliers.
   • The government has been monitoring these benefits through independent research and consumer feedback [1].
2. Installation Experience
   • The initial evaluation in 2018 used mystery shoppers to assess the smart meter installation process.
   • A follow-up study in 2025 used convenience sampling to gather feedback from both domestic and non-domestic consumers [1].
3. Booking and Installation Process
   • A detailed evaluation of the booking and installation journey was added in the latest update. It highlights areas of improvement and consumer expectations during the setup phase [1].
4. Innovation and Trials
   • Related initiatives include trials of alternative In-Home Displays (IHDs) and the Non-Domestic Smart Energy Management Innovation Competition (NDSEMIC), aimed at enhancing smart energy solutions for businesses [1].

The relevant documents provide in-depth analysis and are available for download on the GOV.UK page [1].

References

[1] Smart meters: progress on realising benefits for consumers

Overview of the GOV.UK Publication

Published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on 8 August 2025, the report explores how domestic and non-domestic consumers respond to the smart meter roll-out, particularly regarding maintenance visits and communication hub exchanges.

Key Findings:

• Smart Metering’s Role: It is central to enabling a flexible, decarbonised power system and helping households manage energy use and reduce bills.
• Maintenance Visits: Some smart meters require future maintenance to remain in smart mode. The research identifies what encourages or discourages consumers from accepting these visits.
• Message Framing: How the maintenance visit is communicated significantly affects consumer willingness to participate. Tailored messaging improves acceptance rates.

Behavioural Insights

• Consumers are more receptive when messages emphasise personal benefits (e.g., cost savings, convenience).
• Barriers include concerns about disruption, lack of understanding, and mistrust of suppliers.
• Vulnerable groups (e.g., low-income, elderly, or disabled consumers) may need additional support to engage effectively.

Supporting Internal Materials

Several internal documents and meetings reinforce and expand on the themes in the GOV.UK report:

• The Draft Framework for smart metering support outlines eight principles for supporting vulnerable and prepayment consumers, based on early behavioural trials.
• The smart metering policy framework post 2025 consultation document sets out obligations for suppliers to complete the rollout by 2030 and improve