Customers of various energy companies like Octopus Energy, British Gas, E.ON Next, OVO Energy, Scottish Power, and EDF are being alerted to a new 90-day rule that could entitle them to a cash payout. Recently implemented, this rule requires companies to rectify smart meter issues within 90 days. The initiative was introduced by Ofgem to enhance the performance standards for smart meters and energy suppliers.
Smart meters play a crucial role in providing real-time data on gas and electricity usage, enabling consumers to access discounted nighttime rates. Currently, around 3 million out of 40 million smart meters are reported to be faulty, prompting the government to enforce stricter regulations on energy suppliers. Failure to repair faulty smart meters within the designated timeframe could result in fines or legal actions by the regulator, Ofgem, with affected consumers eligible for a £40 compensation.
One customer, Tony Harris, expressed frustration over his non-functional smart meter, which has been inactive for over two years, preventing him from benefiting from cost-saving tariff options. Energy UK, representing energy suppliers, emphasized the importance of maintaining high performance standards and welcomed the government’s emphasis on ensuring the proper operation of existing smart meters.
Ofgem has outlined that households facing delays exceeding six weeks for a smart meter appointment, installation appointment failures due to supplier faults, or unresolved reported issues within five working days will automatically receive a £40 compensation. The ongoing review of performance standards for smart meters aims to support the widespread adoption of these devices in UK households.
Since 2024, over 900,000 non-operational smart meters have been repaired or replaced, contributing to the increasing adoption rate of smart meters across the UK. Ofgem plans to reassess these standards in early 2027 to ensure consumer needs are being met effectively. Melissa Giordano from Ofgem highlighted the benefits of smart meters, including accurate billing, reduced tariffs, and real-time energy monitoring, emphasizing the importance of swift and reliable smart meter installations for all customers.