GB smart meter network set for major upgrade
Image courtesy Tomato Energy
The Data Communications Company (DCC) is partnering with IBM UK, CGI, Netcompany, and Vodafone to upgrade the GB smart meter network.
The aim of the upgrade is to modernise the data service provider (DSP) platform, which controls messaging between the smart metering equipment and energy suppliers, network operators and other users.
This messaging enables critical functions to take place, such as prepayment meter top-up, and allows for the collection of data needed for energy supplier billing, settlement, or other industry-wide purposes.
Commenting that smart metering is central to Britain’s energy transition to net zero, Chris Lovatt, DCC CEO, said that as part of the transition, it is crucial that to drive the best possible outcomes for customers and energy consumers.
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“The enhanced design and contracts delivered by this new DSP platform will enable DCC to deliver better value for money, while driving flexibility, stability and security.”
He added looking forward to welcoming IBM as a new partner and building on the existing partnerships with Netcompany, Vodafone, and CGI.
The new, cloud-based technical solution for the DSP has been based on three key operational priorities to deliver benefits for the DCC’s customers and energy consumers – being stable and secure with near-zero downtime, right first time with monitoring through provision of real time data and flexible and fast to meet the needs of a growing network.
With this the DSP data solution is planned to evolve and develop over time, enhancing the security, capabilities and stability of the smart metering network.
The contract was awarded following an 18-month, competitive procurement.
The DCC is now working with the partners to undertake the design, build and test of the new service.
Currently, over 34 million smart meters in over 20 million homes are connected to the DCC’s network, with over 2.5 billion messages transmitted monthly.
