Your electricity tariff options depend on the type and configuration of your electricity meter. If you're not sure what type of meter you have, use our Meter Identification Tool to find out.
Should you switch to a smart meter?
Switching to a smart meter has several benefits (provided your area has Three Network coverage)
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You have the option (but not the obligation) to switch to a smart tariff
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You can download detailed usage data from ESB Networks
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No more need to submit meter readings
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No more estimated bills
The primary downside of smart meters is reduced privacy. This is because smart meters send half-hourly electricity usage data to ESB Networks, unlike mechanical meters which usually provide data only every few months.
Should you switch to a smart tariff?
If you switch to a smart meter then you will get the option to also switch to a smart tariff.
In principle, smart tariffs are better than non-smart tariffs. This is because smart tariffs can, but don't have to, come with the option of time-of-use tariffs. If you don't like the time-of-use tariffs, you can always just select a flat rate "smart tariff".
The only problem is that electricity suppliers are allowed to (and sometimes do) charge different prices for effectively the same electricity plan, depending on the meter configuration. So customers can potentially get locked out of the best deals buy not having the flexibility to choose a non-smart tariff. Therefore, if you're not likely to save money by switching to a smart tariff, you should probably stay with a non-smart tariff for now, as it keeps your options more open.
But for many people, big savings are possible by switching to a smart tariff. To check if a smart tariff would be cheaper for you than a non-smart tariff, run a custom electricity price comparison and select "don't know/show all" option for meter type. For accuracy, it's also best to use your smart meter data for the data source. You'll then get to see both smart and non-smart tariffs ranked against each other.
Summary of Meter Configurations
| Meter Type | Configuration | Meter **Code** | **Smart Tariff** | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24-hour mechanical | MCC01 | Not available | ||
| Day/night mechanical | MCC02 | Not available | ||
| Smart | As a 24-hour mechanical meter | MCC01 | Available | If you switch to a smart tariff, your meter code will change to MCC12 or MCC16 |
| Smart | As a day/night meter | MCC02 | Available | If you switch to a smart tariff, your meter code will change to MCC12 or MCC16 |
| Smart | "Activated" | MCC12 or MCC16 | Mandatory |
Smart Meters and Solar Export Payments
If you get solar panels installed, the ESB will be put on the priority list for smart meter installation. If you refuse the smart meter, you won't get paid for surplus electricity that you export to the grid.