Smart meters are the next generation of electricity meters. Using digital technology, the meters give consumers and suppliers accurate information on energy usage throughout the day. Similar digital meters are being rolled out across Europe and internationally. By 2020 it is expected that over 700 million smart meters will be installed globally. When fully operational, smart meters will bring benefits to the consumer, the environment and the economy.

With smart meters, there will be no need for estimated bills. Consumers will be able to access the information they need to make more informed choices about their consumption and the best tariff option for them. Accurate information about energy usage across the day will allow consumers manage their bills with greater accuracy

There will be no upfront charge to have a smart meter installed. Like other infrastructure upgrades, the cost of the meter upgrade will be recouped over time in charges paid for use of the electricity network and so there is no up-front charge to have a smart meter installed.

When smart meters are fully operational, you will have a choice to be provided with more accurate information about energy usage across the day to allow you to better manage your bills with greater accuracy than at present. This information can also help you to make more informed choices about your consumption and tariff.

Currently, your electricity meter is manually read by ESB Networks up to four times per year. Smart Meters are able to automatically send your meter readings to ESB Networks. So with smart meters, there will be no need for estimated bills. We anticipate that by 2021, new products and services will enable you to shift some of your consumption to off peak times of the day when electricity is cheaper.

Smart meters are the next generation electricity meters and will replace older mechanical meters. When fully operational, smart meters will bring benefits to the consumer, the environment and the economy.

With smart meters, there will be no need for estimated bills. You will be able to access the information you need to make more informed choices about your consumption and tariffs. Accurate information about energy usage across the day will allow you to manage your bills with greater accuracy.

The environment will benefit because smart metering will encourage energy efficiency and support an increase in renewable power on the electricity system. The upgrade program will help to cut CO2 emissions and lower Ireland’s costly reliance on fossil fuel imports.

The economy will benefit because using smart meters will help us to more efficiently manage energy flow at times of high demand. They will also enhance competition and improve consumer experience, customer choice and the range of products and services available.

The meter replacement will be carried out by ESB Networks or a company working on behalf of ESB Networks.

The replacement of over 2 million electricity meters with the next generation electricity meter over a six-year period will cost some €1.2bn. Like other infrastructure upgrades, the cost of the meter upgrade will be recouped over time in charges paid for use of the electricity network which means there is no upfront charge to have a smart meter installed. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities has done extensive analysis of the plan and is satisfied that the investment involved represents value for money.

The replacement program will start in autumn 2019 and continue until the end of 2024. ESB Networks will carry out this work on an area by area basis and a detailed rollout plan is currently being developed. While the initial focus will be on the oldest meters, ESB Networks intend to include an option for customers to apply through your electricity supplier or ESB Networks for a prioritised installation of a smart meter. ESB Networks will give everyone plenty of notice about when they are coming to your area to replace meters.

ESB Networks oversee the deployment of all smart meters. All queries relating to early registrations for smart meters are being directly dealt with by ESB Networks. You can contact them on 1800 928 123 or 01 698 5005, and they will be able to look after you.