Written question asked by Lord Beamish (Labour) on Thursday, 26 September 2019, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 October 2019 (named day). It was answered by Kwasi Kwarteng (Conservative) on Tuesday, 1 October 2019 on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Energy: Meters

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether customers will have the right to refuse the installation of smart meters in their homes after 2024.

Answer: Under current proposals the New and Replacement Obligation (NRO) will remain in place after 2024. The NRO requires energy suppliers to take all reasonable steps to install a smart meter where a meter is fitted for the first time, including in new build properties, or when an existing meter needs to be replaced. Under these proposals, consumers could choose not to have a smart meter. However, we expect the benefits of, amongst others, improved customer service, access to new products and services, and energy and bill savings will make smart meters the preferred choice for consumers.

Secondary information