Smart Meter Upgrade - Access to Near Real Time Metering Data Consultation

The consultation can be found here.

The National Smart Metering Programme is well advanced with over 1.9 million smart meters installed in Irish homes and businesses, and a range of smart services available to customers. Customers with a smart meter can access their near real time metering data through the installation of an in-home display or a device that connects to smart phone application. Near real time metering data is relevant to decisions customers make around their energy usage and can empower customers to be more energy efficient which can help save them money.

In 2016, the CRU set out its Decision regarding the presentation of energy usage data to customers. This Decision placed a transitionary obligation on ESB Networks to provide a physical in-home display to any customer who requested one through their supplier. Since the CRU’s 2016 Decision there has been significant advances in communication technology and an observed increase in those across all groups of society opting to use this technology to access information and services. For these reasons, the CRU reviewed its 2016 Decision to assess its relevance today.

The purpose of this consultation paper is to set out the CRU’s proposed amendments to the 2016 Decision. The CRU’s proposals seek to deliver value to customers, while supporting fair access to the full benefits that smart meters have to offer. The CRU is seeking views from consumer interest groups, suppliers and all other interested parties on the proposals set out in this paper.

Responses should be submitted via the consultation platform by the close of business on Thursday, 31st July 2025.