Smart Meter (SMETS1)

Key takeaways

SMETS stands for Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications.

SMETS1 meters use a mobile network to send data to your supplier.

SMETS1 meters have historically been more likely to lose smart functionality after switching supplier, depending on how they’re enrolled.

What does SMETS1 mean?

SMETS1 means a first-generation smart meter built to the SMETS1 specification.

Suppliers commonly explain SMETS as the technical specification standard used for smart meters.

How SMETS1 communicates

SMETS1 meters use a mobile network to send usage data to your supplier.

Why it matters for businesses

For most businesses, the practical benefits are:

1. fewer estimated bills (because readings can be sent automatically)
2. clearer consumption data for tracking and budgeting

Where SMETS1 can matter is switching: some SMETS1 meters have had issues maintaining “smart” features after a supplier change, depending on setup.

Sources

1. OVO Energy: SMETS meaning and the two generations
2. Smart Energy GB: SMETS1 vs SMETS2 communications (mobile network vs DCC)
3. Octopus Energy: Practical difference after switching (SMETS1 upgrade context)