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Install a smart meter.
SMETS 2 smart meter from your energy supplier — free, enables time-of-use tariffs and HAN dashboards.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any renewable energy starts on smart Meter Installation.
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SMETS1 vs SMETS2
SMETS1 may lose smart functionality when you switch supplier. SMETS2 maintains across switches.
Limited installation slots
Energy suppliers booked weeks ahead. Plan timing.
Smart tariff lock-in
Smart tariffs may have minimum contract periods. Check before switching.
In-Home Display under-utilised
Most users ignore. App on smartphone often better.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Smart meter installationFree by supplier
£1–£1
In-Home Display (IHD)Included usually
£1–£1
Smart tariff savings annualOctopus Go, Intelligent
£200–£800
Time-of-use heating savingsIf electric heating
£100–£400
EV charging savingsOff-peak charging
£300–£800
SEG export rateAnnual export
£100–£600
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Smart meters enable smart tariffs and renewable integration — crucial for Octopus Go, Intelligent Octopus, etc. Free install by your energy supplier. Expect zero cost but limited choice of timing.
What Does the Work Involve?
Energy supplier sends engineer. Old meter removed. SMETS2 smart meter installed (compatible with switching suppliers). Wireless connection to your home via In-Home Display (IHD). Monthly readings transmitted to supplier. Smart tariff activation requires app and meter pairing.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart meter installation | 0 | 0 | Free by supplier |
| In-Home Display (IHD) | 0 | 0 | Included usually |
| Smart tariff savings annual | £200 | £800 | Octopus Go, Intelligent |
| Time-of-use heating savings | £100 | £400 | If electric heating |
| EV charging savings | £300 | £800 | Off-peak charging |
| SEG export rate | £100 | £600 | Annual export |
How Long Does It Take?
Install: 1-2 hours. Supplier scheduling: 2-8 weeks lead time. Smart tariff activation: 1-2 weeks after install.
DIY or Professional?
Energy supplier specialist only. Free service.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Your current energy supplier installs free. SMETS2 standard for switching supplier flexibility.
UK Regulations
Free smart meter offer through energy suppliers (regulated by Ofgem). SMETS2 specification mandatory.
Common Problems
- SMETS1 vs SMETS2: SMETS1 may lose smart functionality when you switch supplier. SMETS2 maintains across switches.
- Limited installation slots: Energy suppliers booked weeks ahead. Plan timing.
- Smart tariff lock-in: Smart tariffs may have minimum contract periods. Check before switching.
- In-Home Display under-utilised: Most users ignore. App on smartphone often better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smart meter free?
Yes — installed free by your energy supplier. No installation cost.
SMETS1 or SMETS2?
SMETS2 — second generation. Maintains smart functionality when you switch supplier. SMETS1 may lose functionality.
How does smart tariff save money?
Time-of-use pricing — cheap off-peak (8-9p/kWh) vs peak (30p+/kWh). Run heat pump, EV, washing at off-peak.
Best smart tariff for solar?
Octopus Flux: variable rates based on grid demand. Export rate 25p+/kWh during peak. Best for solar+battery.
Will smart meter work if I switch supplier?
SMETS2: yes, seamlessly. SMETS1: may lose smart features for 6-12 months after switching.
Privacy concerns?
Smart meters transmit consumption data to supplier (and DCC). Privacy regulations apply. No third-party sharing without consent.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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