OctoTariffs

Meters and readings

What happens to your smart meter when you switch to Octopus

Whether your smart meter keeps working when you switch to Octopus, why some older meters go dumb, and what to do about it.

Edited by Rob Gibbs. Published: . Guidance reviewed: .

Methodology · Corrections

Short answer

A SMETS2 smart meter keeps working when you switch, because it uses the national smart network that every major supplier can read. Older SMETS1 meters that have been moved onto that network usually do too. Those that have not can lose their smart features until Octopus enrols or replaces them. In that case, send readings yourself.

On switch day

Your meter is not touched. Octopus starts reading it on the switch date, and that first reading is used as the closing reading for your old supplier.

If it goes dumb

Signs and what to do:

  • Bills marked as estimated, or reminder emails asking for readings.
  • Send a reading every month until the meter is reconnected.
  • Ask Octopus whether the meter can be enrolled or needs replacing with SMETS2.

Smart tariffs need a working meter

Agile, Go, Intelligent Go, Cosy and the export tariffs all rely on half-hourly readings. If you plan to move to one, make sure the meter is communicating first.

Questions people ask

Will my smart meter stop working if I switch?

Not if it is SMETS2 or an enrolled SMETS1. An unenrolled SMETS1 may stop sending readings until Octopus fixes it.

Do I need a new meter to switch to Octopus?

No. Octopus supplies you through your existing meter.

Tariffs in this guide

Related guides

Primary sources