How E.ON, Vodafone and Toshiba are Optimising Smart Meters

December 08, 2024

undefined mins

E.ON provides customers with smart meters to monitor and reduce energy use - Credit: E.ON

DCC, Vodafone, Toshiba, Accenture, CGI and Deloitte are upgrading smart meter networks with 4G hubs to drive sustainability and net zero progress

The Data Communications Company (DCC) has partnered with Vodafone, Toshiba, Accenture, CGI and Deloitte to enhance the UK's smart meter infrastructure with a cost-efficient 4G Communications Hub solution.

This strategic upgrade is designed to prepare British consumers for the future as the era of 2G and 3G comes to an end.

It also marks a significant transformation in how energy consumption is managed in the UK, pushing the nation closer to its net zero objectives.

By upgrading to 4G, the network is set to improve its operational performance and offer greater value to energy consumers.

DCC's efforts involve extensive planning to harness the potential of 4G technology and beyond, aiming to maintain this setup into the future.

The smart meter network

Smart meters are electronic devices that record and measure how much gas, water or electricity a household uses. These devices send the data directly to consumers and energy suppliers, ensuring bills are more accurate and promoting better energy management practices.

Smart meters allow you and your energy supplier to get information about your energy use

The smart meter network operated and developed by DCC is one of the largest telecom networks in Europe reaching more than 100 million devices across 33 million premises.

The first batch of 4G Communications Hubs is scheduled for installation between December 2024 and February 2025, with a broader rollout expected by the summer of 2025.

Currently, smart meters are in more than half of the homes across Britain to support managing energy use, promoting efficiency and innovation among energy suppliers and network operators.

Collaboration and innovation

Toshiba, a key player in this project, is responsible for the production of the first batch of next-generation 4G Communication Hubs.

Early December 2024 saw some of the first new hubs being installed in Staffordshire by E.ON, one of the UK's leading energy firms.

Phil Gilbert, Director of Net Zero Delivery at E.ON, says: “Smart meters are a crucial component in the work to deliver net zero targets in Great Britain. They allow households to take control of their own energy usage and carbon footprint and help suppliers to balance demand across our national energy infrastructure.

Along with E.ON, Phil is also the Non-Executive Director at the NHS

"As a responsible energy supplier, we continually work to maintain our smart meter fleet and ensure they operate as expected. Therefore, we are delighted to be one of the first suppliers to be piloting the installation of these new 4G Communications Hubs.”

Deloitte is supporting the project by offering consulting services focused on energy efficiency and sustainable business practices, thereby supporting the broader sustainability goals.

Also involved are Accenture and Vodafone, who are collectively working to boost operational efficiency and customer service.

This collaboration also aims to reduce waste and optimise resource management, contributing to environmental sustainability.

CGI is developing essential data collection systems and ensuring the smart metering development is optimised for efficiency.

The companies' efforts are crucial in supporting Britain's transition to a more sustainable energy future, providing accurate data for consumer usage and integrating renewable energy sources effectively.

DCC’s ongoing commitment

The role of smart metering extends beyond simple utility management; it's a crucial element in reducing the overall carbon footprint of households.

It promotes flexibility and efficiency in energy consumption which is key to achieving the UK's net zero goals.

Gav Parrott, Director of Products and Networks at DCC, says: "At DCC we are continuously looking to ensure our technology is fit for the future, and it’s fantastic that DCC's customers, energy suppliers, have started to successfully install the new 4G Communications Hub in consumers’ homes.

In 17 years, Thomas has risen from Commercial Director to COO & CFO.

"This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of DCC colleagues, our partners and customers, and marks a major moment in the history of the smart metering roll-out.”

To ease the installation process, a Dual Band Communications Hub solution has been developed for use in all premises, extending the reach of the Home Area Network and delivering a simplified installation process for energy suppliers.

Gav (left) has been part of the Smart DCC team for over five years.

These ongoing efforts showcase a strong commitment to enhancing the UK’s smart meter infrastructure, fundamental in reducing energy consumption and ensuring that renewable energy sources are more integrated into the grid.

Explore the latest edition of Sustainability Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE.

Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.

Sustainability Magazine is a BizClik brand