Further consultation on non-domestic smart metering: the DCC opt-out

Citizens Advice reports [ 160 kb] and supports the rollout of smart meters to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and micro-businesses. As for the domestic sector, we see clear social and economic value in accurate billing and the anticipated demand reduction, but recognise that the non-domestic sector has distinct challenges and needs, not least in terms of the desire and potential for savings.

Unless the interest of consumers drives the smart meter programme, SME consumers will face the costs, but not enjoy the potential benefits. Citizens Advice has raised, and will continue to raise, their interest directly with governments, regulators and market players. We also note that this is an energy policy where we are attempting to ensure that SMEs are neither ignored nor given different treatment unless it can be clearly justified. In the case of the latter we have had long concerns regarding the ability to opt-out of the Data Communications Company (DCC), especially in terms of interoperability.