At the end of 2023, there were 34.8 million smart and advanced meters in homes and small businesses, with 30.8 million operating in smart mode or advanced meters, meaning that 11 per cent, or four million smart meters, are not working in smart mode.

The figures, from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (Desnez), indicate that there are faulty meters or faulty connections, and consumers will likely be relying on estimated bills instead.

A total of 3.5 million smart and advanced meters were installed in 2023, with 98 per cent installed by large suppliers and 2 per cent by small suppliers. Overall, installation levels decreased by 6 per cent compared to 2022; in part because of the earlier success of the programme with 61 per cent of all meters now ‘#smart’ – although that figure includes those that are faulty.

---