The UK’s smart metering programme has now delivered more than 39 million smart and advanced meters, representing significant progress towards nationwide coverage. While installation rates have remained relatively subdued in recent months, the programme continues to move steadily towards its long term objective of near-universal rollout. 

 

The Government’s post-2025 framework sets out a clearer path to completion by 2030, with a stronger focus on system performance as well as deployment. Alongside continued installations, there is increasing emphasis on ensuring smart meters operate effectively, faults are resolved quickly, and ageing equipment is replaced where necessary. 

A key development supporting this next phase is the transition to 4G WAN communications. This upgrade will replace older infrastructure and significantly improve the reliability and reach of the smart metering network. For consumers, this means more stable connectivity and greater ability to benefit from smart tariffs, flexible energy services and low carbon technologies. 

The framework also provides greater long term certainty for industry. By setting expectations and milestones through to 2030, it enables manufacturers, suppliers, installers and meter asset providers to plan more effectively. This includes strengthening installer capacity, managing supply chains, and preparing for closer integration between smart metering and technologies such as EV charge points, heat pumps and energy storage systems. 

Alongside this, the Government’s “Enhancing the Smart Meter Installation Journey” consultation highlights a continued focus on improving the consumer experience. Priorities include better coordination between smart meter installations and low-carbon technology deployment, addressing installer capacity constraints, and improving engagement in areas where rollout has been slower. These measures are intended to reduce disruption for households and support smoother delivery across the programme. 

Looking ahead, Government continues to emphasise the wider benefits of completion: lower energy bills, improved consumer control, better visibility of system demand, and carbon reductions that support the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions. Smart meters remain a foundational technology in enabling a more flexible, affordable and low-carbon energy system.