Smart Energy GB responsibility extended in relation to microbusiness consumers

In its response to a consultation launched in January, "Smart Meters Implementation realising non-domestic benefits", the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has today announced that it intends to extend Smart Energy GB's role in supporting the rollout of smart meters to microbusiness consumers across Britain.

Responding to the announcement, Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Smart Energy GB, said:

"Microbusiness consumers form an important part of the non-domestic energy market and it is important that the smart meter rollout properly engages these consumers so that they can realise the benefits of smart meters for their businesses. I look forward to working with energy suppliers to define the goals that Smart Energy GB should work towards in this new area of our responsibilities."

Background:

How do I get a smart meter installed?
Microbusiness consumers should contact their energy supplier to get a smart meter. For household customers, to book a smart meter installation call 0300 131 8000.

What is a microbusiness?
A microbusiness is a company with fewer than 10 staff.

What happens next?
Smart Energy GB's role and responsibilities are set out in law. The government will change the conditions within the energy supplier licences relating to Smart Energy GB's responsibilities, which will require a change in legislation. We look forward to working with energy suppliers on how we can support Britain's businesses in receiving the benefits of smart meters.

-ENDS-

Notes to editors

About Smart Energy GB

Smart Energy GB is the campaign for a smarter Britain. It's our task to help everyone in Great Britain understand smart meters, the national rollout and how to use their new meters to be cleaner and greener with their energy use. Our national campaign is reaching households and microbusinesses in England, Scotland and Wales. For more information visit our website smartenergyGB.org

About smart meters and the rollout

Smart meters replace the traditional meters we currently have in our homes. They enable accurate bills, near real time information on energy use in pounds and pence, and greater control over the way we buy and use energy. The smart meter rollout is an essential technology upgrade, unprecedented in its scale, to improve Great Britain's energy infrastructure.

There are already nearly 14 million smart meters installed in homes and microbusinesses across Great Britain. Every household in England, Scotland and Wales will be offered one at no extra cost. Contact your energy supplier about getting your smart meter.

For media enquiries, contact the press office:

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 0203 019 1054