The UK’s national smart metering network is now connected to over 33 million meters in 20 million homes and small businesses.

Built and operated by the Data Communications Company (DCC), the milestone means that more than half of British homes are connected to network.

The DCC said the smart meter network is critical part of the UK’s energy infrastructure, describing it as an important platform for digitalising the power grid, which is a key step towards Britain’s goal of net zero.

Smart meters allow households to monitor energy usage and reduce their carbon emissions.

Additionally, smart meter users have access to the Demand Flexibility Service which incentivises consumers to shift their consumption from peak times, helping to balance the grid and reducing the need for additional fossil-fuel generation.

The DCC claims the use of smart meters is preventing the release of over one million tonnes of carbon per year, or the equivalent to taking a million cars off the road.

“With this latest milestone of connecting to 20 million premises across Britain, DCC and the energy industry continue to demonstrate our commitment to making Britain more connected, so we can all lead smarter, greener lives,” said Penny Brown, chief operating officer at DCC. “Together, we are helping Britain and British energy consumers to decarbonise and save money through smarter use of its energy.”

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