Plans for the installation of smart meters for millions of homes and businesses in Great Britain has taken a further step forward with the publication of Government decisions on rules for consumer engagement, privacy, and security.
Energy and Climate Change Minister Baroness Verma said: “The introduction of 
smart meters nationwide is, of course, an enormous challenge, representing a vast upgrade of our energy system, but with huge potential benefits for millions of homes and businesses and for Great Britain as a whole.
“Let me be clear: the consumer comes first. That’s why we are tackling issues such as privacy, security, consumer protection and communications now, working with industry and consumer groups to make sure we get this right ahead of the mass rollout.
“This marks an exciting step forward in delivering the smart meter programme, as we finalise the work needed to achieve the benefits we believe consumers should receive.”
The Government’s vision is for every home in Great Britain to have smart energy meters, with business and public sector users also having smart or advanced energy metering suited to their needs. The roll out of smart meters will play an important role in Britain’s transition to a low-carbon economy and help us meet some of the long-term challenges we face in ensuring an affordable, secure and sustainable energy supply.
Consumers will have near real time information on their energy consumption to help them control their energy use, and avoid wasting energy and money. Smart meters will also provide consumers with more accurate information and bring an end to estimated billing, helping them to budget better.
Energy suppliers will be responsible for replacing over 53m gas and electricity meters, involving visits to 30m homes and small businesses. The mass roll-out of smart meters will start in late 2014 and to be completed in 2019. The majority of consumers will receive their smart meters during the mass roll-out.
More information: www.decc.gov.uk/