DECC has recently published its consultation on the second version smart metering equipment technical specifications (smets 2), which lean towards giving responsibility for smart meter communications hubs to communications service providers.
In response to this, Mark England, CEO of Sentec, commented, “It’s great to see DECC recognising the expertise of service providers and the role their experience can play in ensuring a successful smart meter roll-out. But while it is important to involve and assign responsibilities to experts in the relevant field (in this case communications), it is crucial that the government, via DECC, maintains a holistic view of the smart meter programme.
If different areas of responsibility are handed out to different groups, there is a risk that the roll-out will lose sight of the end goal – enabling consumers to change their behaviour when it comes to energy consumption and ensuring an affordable, secure and sustainable energy supply.
