The UK has announced new measures aimed at advancing smart energy technology and infrastructure across the country. The plans focus on enabling more homes to benefit from smart meters and flexible energy tariffs, as well as funding for companies to test new IoT-enabled services.

A key part of the strategy is improving support for in-home displays that connect to smart meters. The government has launched a scheme for customers to repair or replace faulty displays beyond the one-year warranty period. Major energy suppliers covering 60% of the market have signed up, allowing more households to accurately track energy usage. 

There is also a review underway of default energy deals to make them more dynamic. The goal is for standard tariffs to better reflect low pricing during periods of cheaper, low-carbon electricity generation. This would incentivise the use of smart tech and meters.

The announcement included a £10 million fund for companies to pilot innovative tariffs and technologies enabled by IoT connectivity. Examples include personalised pricing based on a home’s routine, as well as smart chargers for electric vehicles that harness cheap, off-peak electricity prices.

Amanda Solloway, Minister for Energy Affordability and Skills, commented: “Over half of British homes already have the potential to access cheap off-peak power through a smart meter but we can all fall victim to not having time to shop around for a good energy rate.

“These new measures will ensure people can access these savings even if they’re on the standard basic tariff, so even the busiest families don’t miss out on cheaper bills.”

Industry group Energy UK welcomed the package, highlighting its potential to give households more control over bills while rewarding flexible energy use. They see it as a step toward a smarter grid that maximises renewables and distributed energy resources through IoT coordination.

Daniel Portis, Deputy Director at Energy UK, said: “A smart, flexible energy system will bring benefits for all customers. Energy suppliers are investing and innovating to meet this challenge with new products and services that help their customers have more control over their bills and take advantage of times when energy is cheapest.

“So we welcome today’s package from the Government which could help households make the most of smart technology, provides important funding for innovation and kickstarts a vital conversation about how we ensure the future energy market works for all customers.”

The moves build on the UK’s existing progress in smart infrastructure. Over half of British homes already have a smart meter installed. Related flexible energy deals can save households ~£900 per year, according to government estimates.

With smart meters and grids integral to the UK’s long-term clean energy plans, the new measures signal continued political momentum and investment in IoT-driven innovation for the energy sector.

(Photo by Siân Wynn-Jones on Unsplash)

See also: IoT transforming solar efficiency in South Africa

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Tags: energy, environment, europe, government, internet of things, IoT, smart home, smart meter, smart metre, uk