Written question asked by Neil Parish (Conservative) on Wednesday, 14 March 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 March 2012. It was answered by Charles Hendry (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 March 2012 on behalf of the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

Energy: Meters

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether his Department has examined smart metering solutions currently available as models to be able to meet the majority of its smart meter roll-out programme objectives.

Answer: DECC has undertaken extensive consultation with energy companies, meter manufacturers and others to develop specifications for smart meters. This work has included examination of existing solutions and emerging EU standards. Prior to mass roll-out, energy suppliers will use the foundation period to build up experience and learning and during this period it is expected that many currently available meters will comply with DECC's specifications. For mass roll-out it is probable that further product development will be required by meter manufacturers.

Secondary information