The Data Communications Company (DCC) says it has now connected over 100 million smart meters in the UK.
DCC was granted a licence to build and manage its network in 2013 by the Department for Energy and Climate Change, now part of the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
Angus Flett, CEO of DCC, said:
“This milestone shows that the whole sector has progressed hugely over the last year in digitising Britain’s energy system. Since the start of 2020, our secure network has tripled in size — with 10 million smart meters connected, the roll-out is now reaching critical mass.
DCC’s customers, the energy companies and network operators, have worked hard with us to build this momentum, despite the massive challenge of Covid, adapting to ensure safe ways of working. These meters inform and enable a responsive, smart energy grid, allowing Britain to make the best possible use of renewable energy like wind and solar power.”
Smart meters are seen as critical to achieving net-zero emission targets. The milestone hit by DCC is notable in a year when the UK is set to host the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference.
Dan Brooke, Chief Executive of Smart Energy GB, commented:
“Britain’s energy revolution is gaining pace and it’s great to see ten million smart meters now installed on this ultra-safe and secure dedicated network.
As a country, we’re making important progress towards reducing our reliance on oil and gas, and the take-up of technologies like smart meters and electric vehicles is playing a vital role in helping Britain’s effort to hit its net-zero targets and combat climate change.”
Research suggests DCC’s 10 million smart meters alone will prevent the release of an equivalent of 275,000 tonnes of CO2 per year–-the same as around 95,000 households, or a city the size of Chester.
For further perspective, around 1,300 hectares of new woodland would need to be planted to offset the level of emissions which are estimated to be saved each year by the smart meters.
Government research suggests smart meters reduce household energy consumption by around two percent (PDF). Some studies estimate that more engaged users can save up to 20 percent.
Figures suggest smart meters will prevent 45 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions by 2034. Electricity usage is set to double by 2050 so smart green tech developments will be key to minimising the environmental impacts.
(Source: IoT News https://iottechnews.com/news/2021/feb/02/dcc-smart-meter-network-passes-100-million-milestone/ )
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