How smart meters work.
A smart meter automatically sends us your meter readings, so your bill is more accurate. Plus, using the OVO app or the handy In-Home Display (IHD) that comes with your smart meter helps you keep track of your energy usage. That means you can control how much energy you’re using, see what it’s costing, and where you can make changes that could help you save.
A few thingsto help you get started
Different generations of smart meters
There are currently two kinds of smart meter. The older SMETS1, and the latest type, SMETS2, which is the one we install. With this meter, if you decide to switch supplier in the future, it'll continue to work as it should.
What's an In-Home Display?
Your smart meter comes with a handy digital device called an In-Home Display (IHD). Simple to use, it shows your energy use in real time, and how much it’s costing in £ and p. It’s an effective way to track your usage and help you make changes which could lower your energy bills.
How your smart meter sends data
Your smart meter doesn’t connect to your home WiFi. Instead, your data is sent directly to the energy supplier through the WAN (wide area network).
Busting smart meter myths
Smart meters have been thoroughly tested and have passed all UK and EU safety regulations. They use their own closed communications system, so only you and your energy supplier can see your data.
Traditionalversus smart meters
You read a traditional meter once a month
Either you or a meter reader have to take regular meter readings and share them with us to make sure you’re only billed for the energy you use. If you don’t provide readings, your bill will be estimated.
Smart meters send readings automatically
You can choose how often your smart meter sends readings. The more often readings are taken, the more you’ll know about your home's energy usage. You can track your usage, and the cost, in the OVO app.
Smart meters:safety and security
Smart meters can’t collect personal information like your name, address, or bank details. Your meter only collects readings, supply numbers, and the meter serial number, which are protected by strict UK and EU product safety laws. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy.