SMETS1 and SMETS2: Everything you need to know about different types of smart meters
| OVO
Smart meters can help you spot ways to save energy, which could lower your bills and be better for the environment. They automatically send your meter readings, so you only pay for the energy that you use. Plus, with your In-Home Display and the OVO app, you can track your energy use in real-time. These tools give you insights into where your energy goes, helping you make smarter choices to save money and energy.
But the benefits of smart meters go beyond your home, they’re also a key part of building a greener, more reliable energy system. By reducing carbon emissions and supporting renewable energy sources like wind and solar, smart meters help create a cleaner, healthier future for everyone.
If you’re an OVO customer, booking a smart meter appointment is easy. Want to learn more about smart meters first? Or keep reading for the technical details.
Smart meters explained
There are 2 types of smart meter: SMETS1 and SMETS2. SMETS stands for Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications. And the number at the end tells you which generation the meter belongs to. Second-generation smart meters, or SMETS2s, are the current industry standard and are the only type of meter that OVO installs.
SMETS1 smart meters
Energy suppliers started to install the first generation of smart meters (SMETS1) in 2013. They sent meter readings to your energy supplier using a 2G mobile network but some of them stopped sending automatic readings if people changed suppliers, due to the different communications systems they used.
SMETS2 smart meters
These are the latest version and have the same features as the first generation. They all communicate through a standalone, secure network operated by the Data Communications Company (DCC) which makes sure they’ll keep working if you change suppliers.
There isn’t a lot of difference between the two. That’s because the DCC has remotely migrated all SMETS1 meters’ onto the same network as SMETS2 meters. This allows people to switch suppliers without the meter losing any of its smart features.
This doesn’t change the way we use your smart meter data. We’re still the only people that can see how much energy you’re using, and when you’re using it.
How do I know if my smart meter is SMETS1 or SMETS2?
Suppliers began installing SMETS2 smart meters in 2018. If yours was installed before then, it’s likely that you have a SMETS1. The way they look is also different. But to be 100% sure, please contact our Support Team via our online chat and we’ll be happy to tell you which type you have.
The big smart meter upgrade: what you need to know
Some smart meters currently rely on 2G or 3G mobile networks, but these networks are being phased out across the UK in the coming years. These are being replaced by a 4G network, and once this happens, will not function properly if they are not upgraded.
Here’s what this means for you:
SMETS1 meters: These will need to be replaced with SMETS2 models.
Some SMETS2 meters: These may just require an upgrade to a 4G-compatible communications hub.
If your meter isn’t replaced or upgraded you’ll still receive your energy supply as usual. However, you’ll need to manually submit meter readings to make sure your bills are accurate. If you pay for your energy by topping up, you’ll have to manually enter a 20-digit code into your meter when you top up online, at PayPoint or Payzone shops, or over the phone.
The network switch-off will happen gradually over the next few years, region by region. We’ll contact you when it’s time to arrange an appointment for your upgrade.
Haven't yet got a smart meter?
If you’re with OVO and want to get an SMETS2 smart meter, all you need to do is to book an appointment. We’ll set everything up at no extra cost.