Written question asked by Baroness Teather (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 13 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 October 2008. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 2008 on behalf of the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

Energy: Meters

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he plans to decide on the roll-out of the smart meter programme; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The Government announced on 28 October their plan to roll out smart meters to all domestic customers, 28 October 2008, Official Report, House of Lords, column 1515, along with an indicative timetable of around two years to design and establish the full details of a roll-out followed by a ten year roll-out period.In the Budget 2008 the Government announced the roll-out of advanced metering to larger business customers over a five-year period, beginning early in 2009. A consultation on the provision of smart and advanced metering for remaining businesses customers closed on 17 October. The Government will respond soon.

Secondary information