Homes and businesses across Northern Ireland have the potential
to save money on their electricity bills, with the introduction
of new smart meters here, said Economy Minister Dr .
Publishing a new ‘Smart Electricity Meters Design Plan' today,
the Minister confirmed that smart meters will bring an end to
estimated bills, giving people clear, real-time information about
how much electricity they use and when they use it.
Minister Archibald said: “The cost of energy here, driven by
volatile fossil fuel prices, is not fair and not sustainable for
homes and businesses, as we have seen in the months following the
war on Iran.
“Today's announcement marks an important step forward for the
north, supporting consumers to better manage their electricity
usage and helping to reduce electricity bills, as well as
creating greater resilience in our local grid.”
Currently, in the Republic of Ireland, two million smart meters
have been installed, while in Britain 22 million smart meters are
now in use. Evidence shows that the installation of these meters
has driven innovation and smarter tariffs from electricity
suppliers, significantly reducing electricity bills for many
consumers.
The Minister added: “The Design Plan published today sets out how
smart meters will be introduced here in a carefully planned,
consumer focused way. It is anticipated that the first smart
meters will be installed in homes around the beginning of 2028,
with a roll out lasting three years.
“I'd like to reassure the public that they do not have to do
anything now. NIE Networks and your electricity supplier will be
in touch at the right time, and you will be supported through the
process at every step.
“There will be no upfront cost for installation, and no loss of
choice. Fixed tariffs and prepayment options will continue to be
available, and smart tariffs will be optional. This is about
giving people better information and ensuring that those who are
most vulnerable can choose to reduce their electricity bills.”
Businesses, including small and medium sized firms, will also be
covered by the roll-out. Smart meters provide the opportunity for
them to reduce electricity costs, provide more accurate bills,
raise fewer disputes, help improve cash flow, while also
supporting a more reliable electricity network.
Speaking in support of today's announcement, Pat Austin,
Director, National Energy Action Northern Ireland, said: “Smart
meters can deliver real benefits for households by helping people
better understand their energy use and avoid estimated bills. A
fair and inclusive rollout will be important to ensure vulnerable
households can benefit from greater control over their energy
costs and enjoy warmer, healthier homes.”
Gemma McHale, Head of Smart Metering at NIE Networks, added: “NIE
Networks welcomes publication of the Smart Electricity Meters
Design Plan. Smart meters will help deliver a more efficient
electricity system and help customers get better value, and we
look forward to working with partners to develop a robust
programme and delivery timeline.”
Noyona Chundur, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, said:
“Smart meters will help consumers better understand and manage
their electricity use, supporting informed choices that can
reduce bills and improve energy efficiency. We welcome the Design
Plan and will continue working with partners to ensure strong
consumer protections throughout the rollout.”
John French, Chief Executive, Utility Regulator, concluded: “We
look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the
Department and key stakeholders on the successful rollout of
smart meters across Northern Ireland. Developing the necessary
regulatory frameworks to support the design plan is essential to
ensuring consumer protection and enabling the full range of
benefits that smart meters can deliver.”
Note to Editors:
1. The Smart Electricity Meters Design Plan is available on the
Department's website at www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/design-plan-roll-out-smart-electricity-meters.
Please note this link will not be available until
00.01 tomorrow, Wednesday 29 April.
2. Electricity meters in homes and businesses are already paid
for through electricity bills, so there will be no additional
upfront charge for the change to smart meters.
3. As well as enabling smarter electricity usage smart meters
will enable NIE Networks, the electricity network operator, to
run the network more efficiently, which in turn reduces costs for
consumers.
4. Supporting vulnerable consumers will be central to the
rollout. The Department will work with NIE Networks, the Consumer
Council, and other relevant organisations to ensure appropriate
protections, clear information and support are in place so that
smart meters are accessible and beneficial for all consumers.
5. Northern Ireland has around 932,000 electricity connections
including domestic households and non-domestic connections.
