Research and analysis

Alternatives to smart meter In-Home Displays (IHDs): trials and conclusions

Results of trials to test alternatives to smart meter In-Home Displays, including their impact on energy consumption.

Documents

Impacts of alternatives to In-Home Displays on customers’ energy consumption: report by Behavioural Insights Team

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Appendix: Theory of change

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Smart Meters: derogation guidance

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Scottish Power derogation

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EON derogation

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Scottish & Southern Energy derogation

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Details

In 2016, the government introduced a time-limited period for energy suppliers to undertake trials of alternative approaches to smart meter In-Home Displays. The aim was to allow BEIS to assess whether IHDs were the most appropriate means to help people reduce their energy consumption. 5 suppliers applied for trials, 3 of which were successful, the other 2 were withdrawn.

In 2019 we published the government’s policy conclusions from the trial, and a report from the Behavioural Insights Team, an independent research consultancy, who analysed and synthesised the results on behalf of BEIS.

To take part, suppliers had to apply for a derogation from the requirement to offer all domestic consumers an In-Home Display (IHD) when installing a smart meter. Supporting derogation guidance and application forms were published here in April 2016. The letters granting derogation are also available here.

Published 27 April 2016
Last updated 16 September 2019 + show all updates
  1. Conclusions and analysis of trial results published.

  2. Successful applications published.

  3. First published.