How to Get Your Smart Meter Upgraded (SMETS1 to SMETS2 ) in 2025

Want to Upgrade Your Smart Meter?

If you had your smart meter installed before 2019, there’s a good chance it’s a first-generation SMETS1 meter. These meters were an important first step toward the UK’s smarter, greener energy system, but they had one big limitation: many lost their “smart” features when you changed supplier.

The great news? You don’t need to buy or request a new meter. The national upgrade programme, led by the Data Communications Company (DCC) and regulated by Ofgem, is connecting older SMETS1 meters to the secure national network so they work just like SMETS2 meters.

What Is the SMETS1 Upgrade (a.k.a. DCC Enrolment)?

This nationwide project, officially called SMETS1 Enrolment and Adoption, securely brings first-generation meters onto the same data network as newer SMETS2 devices.

Once your SMETS1 meter is enrolled:

• It keeps its “smart” functions permanently, even if you switch supplier.
• It sends automatic readings again (no more manual submissions).
• It’s compatible with all major UK energy suppliers.

The upgrade is done remotely, no engineer visit required in most cases.

How to Check Which Type of Smart Meter You Have?

#### Option 1: Look at the installation date

• Installed before mid-2019 → likely SMETS1.
• Installed after mid-2019 → almost certainly SMETS2.

#### Option 2: Check your bill with Replug Your supplier may list “SMETS1” or “SMETS2” under meter details.

#### Option 3: Ask your supplier Every supplier can tell you your meter type in seconds.

#### Option 4: Check your In-Home Display (IHD) Some IHD menus show “Type 1” or “Type 2”, matching SMETS1 and SMETS2.

If you’re still unsure, your supplier or the DCC upgrade team can confirm it for you.

Do You Need to Request an Upgrade?

In most cases, no, you don’t. The DCC automatically upgrades meters region by region. Your supplier manages the process and will notify you when your meter has been enrolled.

However, you should contact your supplier if:

• Your SMETS1 meter has been “dumb” (not sending readings) for a long time.
• You’ve changed suppliers and lost smart functionality.
• You’ve moved home to a property with an older meter.

They can check your meter’s upgrade status and, if needed, trigger the enrolment remotely.

What Happens During the Upgrade?

1. Your supplier or DCC remotely connects your meter to the national network.
2. The IHD and data services may pause briefly during reconnection.
3. Once the upgrade is complete, your meter:

• sends automatic readings again,
• shows live usage data, and
• stays smart even if you switch suppliers.

Upgrades are usually completed overnight with no power disruption.

If Your Meter Hasn’t Been Upgraded Yet?

• Keep sending manual readings so your bills stay accurate.
• Ask your supplier when your meter is due for DCC enrolment.
• Some suppliers may offer to replace your meter with a free SMETS2 model instead of waiting.

By 2026, the vast majority of SMETS1 meters will be connected to the DCC network.

Why the Upgrade Matters for Consumers?

• Freedom to switch: You’ll be able to change suppliers without losing smart features.
• Accurate billing: No more estimated readings.
• Smarter energy use: Real-time usage data via your IHD helps you manage costs.
• Future tariffs: Enables flexible and time-of-use pricing.

This upgrade is part of the UK government’s goal for a fully smart energy system by the end of the decade.

How Replug Helps?

Before you switch supplier, Replug automatically checks:

• Whether your meter is SMETS1 or SMETS2 if it is indicated into your bill.

Key Takeaways?

• The SMETS1 upgrade connects older meters to the national DCC network.
• Once upgraded, your meter works like a SMETS2 model and stays smart when you switch.
• The upgrade is automatic and free, your supplier will handle it.
• You can check your upgrade status by contacting your supplier. Replug can help you confirm your meter type if it’s shown on your bill.

Helpful links

• Compare energy prices in 60 seconds: https://taupia.com/compare-energy-prices
• Switch energy supplier guide: https://taupia.com/switch-energy-supplier
• How Taupia works: https://taupia.com/how-it-works
• Supported suppliers: https://taupia.com/supported-suppliers
• Security and trust: https://taupia.com/security-and-trust
• FAQs: https://taupia.com/learn-more/faq

Official guidance

• Ofgem (energy regulator): https://www.ofgem.gov.uk
• GOV.UK smart meter guidance: https://www.gov.uk
• Citizens Advice energy help: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk
• Smart Energy GB: https://www.smartenergygb.org