News

As the time draws near when the roll-out of smart meters gets totally under way, Ofgem have put together a code of practice it expects the industry to adhere to.

The Smart Metering Installation Code of Practice (SMICoP)  is being put in place to protect both business and domestic consumers as smart meter installations gather pace next year and aims to ensure that the installations are carried out both fairly and professionally. To this end, the code looks at protection around marketing and sales techniques. This includes banning sales being conducted during an installation visit. Should the installing company wish to carry out any person to person sales or marketing, the customer has to give consent before the visit date. Whilst this is probably geared more to protecting domestic consumers, anything that prevents the irritation and wasted time of dealing with keen sales people is sure to be lauded by business customers as well. Additionally, Ofgem has sought to strengthen the code’s rules on this following consultation and suppliers must “clearly state that consumers are under no obligation to receive face-to-face marketing”. The Smart Metering Installation Code of Practice is enforced through licence conditions and has the power to fine the companies involved if they breach the rules. SMICoP will come into force on 1st June, in anticipation  of the government smart meter rollout from 2014.