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Smart meters

What is the national smart metering programme?

The National Smart Metering Programme involves the upgrade of Ireland’s electricity meters to next generation smart meters.  The programme forms an important part of the National Climate Action Plan and supports the transition to a low-carbon electricity network.

Smart meters measure the amount of electricity customers use and automatically send meter readings directly to ESB Networks significantly reducing the need for estimated bills.

Customers with a smart meter can register for an ESB Networks Online Account to access detailed information about how they are using their electricity. This enables customers to make more informed choices about their electricity usage and also about the various tariff options that are right for them.

To date over 1.9 million smart meters have been installed in homes, farms, and businesses across Ireland.

Background

The meter replacement programme which began in 2019, is being delivered by ESB Networks in co-operation with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and all electricity supply companies.

Smart meters transform how electricity is measured and managed. The technology is key to the delivery of a digitally enabled electricity network which will accommodate even higher levels of renewable energy and support the electrification of transport and heating.

The new technology helps us all to manage how and when electricity is being used in Ireland, so that the right amount is produced at the right time, from the right sources, to help us lower our carbon emissions.

Additionally, smart meters also enable customers who generate their own electricity (e.g. using solar panels), to receive payment for any excess energy they sell into the grid.