Frequently asked questions about smart meters

What are smart meters and why is my existing meter being replaced?

Unlike traditional meters, which simply record a running total of energy used, smart electricity meters can record frequent consumption data and provide automatic meter readings to ESB Networks.

ESB Networks started rolling out smart meters to homes across Ireland in 2019. Smart meters are being installed on a phased basis, which will complete by around 2025. There is no charge for the installation of a smart meter. You can find out more about the smart meter roll-out at esbnetworks.ie.

When fully operational, smart meters have the potential to bring benefits to the consumer and the environment. Smart meters mean an end to inaccurate bills, as you'll only ever have to pay for your precise usage rather than estimated usage. Smart meters can provide customers with more information about their energy usage and enables electricity suppliers to provide a greater choice of tariffs and services.

Who will carry out the replacement work?

The meter replacement will be carried out by ESB Networks or a company working on behalf of ESB Networks. ESB Networks will deal with any installation issues should they arise.

When will the replacement programme be completed?

ESB Networks have been replacing meters since autumn 2019 and will continue to replace meters until end of 2024.

When will I get a Smart meter?

ESB Networks commenced the meter replacement programme in Autumn 2019, and will continue until the end of 2024 for certain meter types. Work is being carried out on an area-by-area basis.

ESB Networks will be in contact when they reach your area to notify you when your meter will be replaced. They will also advise whether you need to be present during the replacement (e.g. if your meter is indoors).

For more information, see esbnetworks.ie.

Do I have to pay for the new meter?

There will be no upfront charge to have a smart meter installed. Like other meter upgrades, the cost of the meter will be recouped over time in charges paid for use of the electricity network infrastructure.

What happens once I receive my smart meter?

ESB Networks are responsible for the roll-out of smart meters to customers and businesses, and will confirm to you when they are installing your smart meter.

Once installed, no further action will be required on your part. Over the following 30-day period your meter will establish its connection to ESB Networks secure communications network. Once this is complete, you'll no longer need to provide regular manual electricity meter readings, as the meter will communicate directly with ESB Networks.

You can sign up for a Smart Standard plan (this plan does not rely on half-hourly readings) as soon as your new smart meter is installed. However once 30 days have passed, you’ll be able to sign up to a wider range of smart plans which use half-hourly readings and include great electricity discounts and offers, such as cheaper weekend energy prices. View and compare our smart plans.

Will a smart meter make any difference to my bill?

Customers with 24 hour meters will continue to be billed in the same way, on their current plan, after the installation of a new smart meter.

Customers with Day/Night meters will be required to change plan when moving to a new smart meter. If you need to change plan, please contact us.

One of the great benefits of a smart meter is that you can have more control over your energy use. Once you've a smart meter installed, you can switch to a smart plan. View and compare our smart plans or you can find a plan matched to your needs using our Find a Plan tool.

Here are some ways a smart plan can save you money and reduce your bills:

You can monitor your daily usage and pinpoint when you use electricity most.
More flexibility to use electricity at times when it costs you less.
No more estimated bills.
If you've an electric vehicle, you can avail of our Electric Vehicle (EV) smart tariff. This Time of Use Tariff has a lower rate for the EV time band, meaning you can charge your car for less.

Find out more about our smart plans and how they work.

Who should I contact if I have further queries on the Smart Meter Replacement Programme?

You should contact ESB Networks Smart Metering support line on 1800 928 123 or 01 698 5005. You may also visit ESB Networks website here.

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