5 min
02.05.2025
The Data Communications Company (DCC) is partnering with service providers IBM UK, CGI, Netcompany, and Vodafone to upgrade Great Britain’s smart meter network. This follows an 18-month, competitive procurement which focused on improving cost and technology benefits for DCC’s customers and energy consumers.
The new contracts will enable the modernisation of the Data Service Provider (DSP) platform.
This service is crucial to the smart meter network, as it controls messaging between smart metering equipment and energy suppliers, network operators, and other users.
This messaging enables critical functions to take place, such as prepayment meter top-up, and allows for the collection of data needed for energy supplier billing, settlement, or other industry-wide innovative purposes.
The DSP data solution will evolve and develop over time, enhancing the security, capabilities, and stability of the smart metering network.
Chris Lovatt, DCC Chief Executive Officer said:
“Smart metering is central to Britain’s energy transition to net zero and the DSP is fundamental to the smart system. As part of the transition, it is crucial that we drive the best possible outcomes for our customers and energy consumers. The enhanced design and contracts delivered by this new DSP platform will enable DCC to deliver better value for money, while driving flexibility, stability and security.”
“We are looking forward to welcoming IBM as a new partner, and building upon our existing partnerships with Netcompany, Vodafone, and CGI as we work together on this exciting journey.”
Tara McGeehan, President, CGI in the UK and Australia, said:
“CGI is looking forward to working as System Integrator for the modernisation of the Data Service Provider data system. This appointment will allow us to use our knowledge and expertise to support DCC to achieve better outcomes for customers and continue to deliver great value for money and efficiencies through our innovative integration solutions."
Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner, IBM Consulting UK & Ireland, said:
“We are proud to partner with DCC to help transform the smart meter network by building a highly secure and resilient Data Services Provider platform. We look forward to working with the DCC and partner organisations to create a smarter, more sustainable energy system that will benefit communities and businesses across Great Britain"
Richard Davies, Country Managing Partner, Netcompany, said:
“Netcompany is proud to continue our partnership with DCC on this vital programme, which underpins the UK’s smart energy future. By collaborating on modernising the Data Service Provider platform, we’re helping to deliver a secure, resilient, and future-ready network that will empower energy suppliers and consumers – all while supporting the nation’s journey towards net zero.”
Nick Gliddon, CEO, Vodafone Business UK said:
“Smart meters are central Britain’s journey toward a more sustainable, efficient energy system — and the Data Service Platform is the intelligence behind it all. At Vodafone, we're proud to expand our role in this national infrastructure by providing the fixed connectivity between energy providers and the DSP. This builds on our existing delivery of mobile connectivity, helping ensure that critical data flows securely and reliably across the ecosystem. We look forward to working alongside DCC, IBM, and CGI to deliver the next generation of smart metering infrastructure for the UK.”
The DCC is now working with the partners to undertake the design, build and test of the new service.
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