Written question asked by Lord Teverson (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Truscott (Labour) on Wednesday, 25 April 2007.

Energy: Meters

Question: Whether they intend to set a framework for the introduction of gas and electricity smart metering for domestic energy consumption that is transferable and inter-operable between all energy suppliers; and

Answer: All gas and electricity meters already measure consumption, although smart meters and associated devices can give customers additional information, as well as, among other things, improving the accuracy of billing. With the support of the industry regulator, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), and the Government, gas and electricity suppliers are holding detailed discussions about the barriers to the introduction of smart metering, including the issue of inter-operability of meters and the need to avoid stranding metering assets. The Government will set out their position on metering, including smart metering, in the forthcoming energy White Paper.

Secondary information