Making first-generation meters smarter
DCC worked closely with energy suppliers to migrate millions of first-generation (SMETS1) smart meters onto the national smart metering network. This programme restored smart functionality for millions of meters and helped ensure consumers can retain smart services when switching supplier.
SMETS1 vs. SMETS2 smart meters
What are SMETS1 smart meters and how are they different from SMETS2 meters?
First-generation smart gas and electricity meters, known as SMETS1 meters, were installed before the DCC's national smart metering network became available. As a result, some SMETS1 meters could lose smart functionality when a consumer switched energy supplier.
Second-generation smart meters, known as SMETS2 meters, were designed to connect directly to the DCC's secure national network. This allows consumers to switch energy suppliers while retaining smart functionality, including automatic meter readings.
Through the SMETS1 migration programme, millions of first-generation smart meters were enrolled onto the DCC network, helping consumers benefit from a more consistent smart metering experience.
How do I know if my SMETS1 meter has been upgraded?
Check what type of smart meter you have and if it should work in smart mode. We have worked with Citizens Advice to provide a tool that allows you to check if your smart meter has been migrated onto our network.
SMETS1 migration status
The vast majority of eligible SMETS1 smart meters have now been migrated to the DCC network. This has enabled many consumers to retain smart functionality when switching energy supplier.
If your smart meter is not operating in smart mode, your energy supplier will be able to advise on its current status and whether any further action is required. In some cases, a meter replacement may be necessary if migration was not possible.
SMETS1 consultations and documents
Find the latest documents relating to the migration of SMETS1 smart meters and explore our consultations.
Find out more
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were smart meters upgraded?
To realise the full benefits of smart metering, the Government established a single national smart metering network and programme to migrate first-generation (SMETS1) smart meters onto it. This enabled consumers to retain smart functionality when switching energy suppliers, regardless of which supplier originally installed their meter.
DCC was appointed by the Government to coordinate the migration of SMETS1 meters onto the national network. Working with energy suppliers across Great Britain, millions of SMETS1 meters were successfully enrolled, helping to restore interoperability and support a more connected and resilient smart energy system.
What changed when my SMETS1 meter was migrated?
The operation of your smart meter should remain largely the same. Your in-home display will continue to work and, if you have a prepayment meter, topping up and other existing functions will continue as normal.
For many consumers, the key benefit of migration was restoring or maintaining the ability for their smart meter to securely and automatically send meter readings, including when switching energy supplier. This helps ensure customers can continue to receive the full benefits of smart metering.
Is my data safe on the DCC network?
Our network has been built to the highest security standards and has been reviewed by the National Cyber Security Centre. It uses high levels of encryption, and the most sensitive data passes across the network without DCC being able to see it.
Only your energy supplier can see how much energy you are using and when. DCC can only access your energy consumption data with your explicit permission.
Will I lose smart functionality if I switch supplier?
The migration of SMETS1 smart meters to the DCC network was designed to help consumers retain smart functionality when switching energy supplier.
The vast majority of eligible SMETS1 meters have now been enrolled onto the network, allowing them to continue sending meter readings automatically even when a customer changes supplier. If your smart meter is not operating in smart mode, you should contact your energy supplier, who can advise on its current status and any action that may be required.
What is the difference between first and second-generation smart meters?
First-generation (SMETS1) smart meters were installed before the DCC's national smart metering network became operational. While the core functionality of SMETS1 and second-generation (SMETS2) smart meters is similar, they were originally designed to communicate with energy suppliers in different ways.
SMETS2 meters were designed to connect directly to the DCC's national network, while SMETS1 meters initially relied on supplier-specific systems. Through the SMETS1 migration programme, millions of first-generation meters were enrolled onto the DCC network, enabling consumers to retain smart functionality when switching energy supplier.
Will SMETS1 migration affect the way I top up my prepayment meter?
No. The way you top up your prepayment meter should remain the same.
The SMETS1 migration programme was designed to minimise disruption for consumers, including those using prepayment meters. For the vast majority of customers, the migration process did not affect day-to-day use of their meter or the way they topped up.
Further reading
