Page last updated on 16th March 2026
The smart meter installation process for small businesses
Want to know how the smart meter installation process will work while you're trying to run a business? Read on to find your questions answered.
How long is an installation?
The installation process is normally smooth and fast, typically lasting an hour per meter replacement. During this time, there may be a very brief interruption to your electricity supply. This is because the installer will need to disconnect your old meter to connect your new smart meter. The installer will inform you of any expected power outage beforehand, so you can make arrangements if necessary. If your smart meter is being installed in a commercial or industrial property, the installer may be able to isolate the meter during installation, which would prevent any interruption to your business operations. Please talk to your supplier if you are worried about your energy supply being cut during the installation, as they may be able to schedule a timeslot outside of your standard business hours or work around your business's schedule.
Installation outside business hours?
Yes, it is possible to arrange a smart meter installation for your small business outside of business hours. Most energy suppliers will offer flexible installation times to accommodate your business needs, including evening or weekend appointments. When you contact your energy supplier to arrange an installation, be sure to let them know if you require a specific time slot outside of regular business hours. They will do their best to schedule an appointment that suits your needs and minimises any disruption to your business operations.
Different gas and electricity meters?
If your business's gas and electricity are supplied by different suppliers, we suggest having your electric smart meter installed before your gas smart meter.
Do I need to be there for the install?
You will need to let the installer in on the day and make sure they can get access to your traditional meters. So, you might need to clear out the cupboards, or make space for the installer to work. If you have any access issues, or concerns about the disruption this could cause within your small business, do let your supplier know. They might be able to help.
Will my installer be qualified?
Yes, all installers have to pass a formal qualification and have to meet specific national standards. These standards are set out in the Smart Metering Installation Schedule. All the energy suppliers have signed up to this code, which is regulated by Ofgem, who have powers to enforce it by fining suppliers if necessary. So you can be sure the installation of your smart meter is safe.
Are installs safe?
The smart meter installation process is planned with the consumer in mind. This includes providing important information to the consumer before installation and ensuring that the engineers carry out the installation in a courteous and professional manner.
Can I install a smart meter for my small business?
Smart meters are the next generation of energy meters, providing businesses with near-real time information on their energy use.
Small businesses can usually get a smart meter at no extra cost. Contact your energy supplier to see if your businesses is eligible, as smart meter offerings may vary between energy suppliers.
There are multiple ways installing a smart meter can benefit you and your business, allowing you to monitor and manage your energy usage more effectively.
Small businesses can request and install a smart meter at no extra cost
Small businesses can usually get a smart meter at no extra cost. Contact your energy supplier to see if your businesses is eligible, as smart meter offerings may vary between energy suppliers.
Say hello to accurate energy bills
Because smart meters track your energy use in near-real time, your small business will only be charged for the energy it actually uses. This means you'll be able to say goodbye to estimated bills, providing helpful transparency for your business budgeting.
Smart meters are making energy bills simpler
With a smart meter, your meter readings will be sent automatically and directly to your supplier. This means no more time wasted on fiddly meter readings, freeing up time for you to focus on your business.
How does the installation process work for a small business?
It's understandable to have concerns about the impact that a smart meter installation might have on your small business, but the process is typically very quick and simple. We'll take you through the process now...
First, contact your supplier
You can request a smart meter from your energy supplier using the search bar on this page. If you qualify for a smart meter installation, your supplier will arrange for a qualified installer to visit your premises.
If you're unsure who your supplier is, contact your Third-Party Intermediary (TPI) or broker.
Pre-installation survey
Once the installation has been booked, the installer will conduct a pre-installation survey to assess your current metering set-up and make sure the space is suitable for a smart meter installation. They will also confirm the installation date and time with you.
The installation
On installation day, your qualified installer will switch out your existing energy meter for a smart meter. The installation process is normally smooth and fast, typically lasting an hour per meter replacement. During this time, there may be a very brief interruption to your electricity supply. This is because the installer will need to disconnect your old meter to connect your new smart meter.
The installer will inform you of any expected power outage beforehand, so you can make arrangements if necessary.
If your smart meter is being installed in a commercial or industrial property, the installer may be able to isolate the meter during installation, which would prevent any interruption to your business operations. Please talk to your supplier if you are worried about your energy supply being cut during the installation, as they may be able to schedule a timeslot outside of your standard business hours or work around your business's schedule.
Testing
Once the smart meter is installed, the installer will carry out some short tests to ensure that it everything is working correctly. They will also sit with you and show you how you can access your smart meter data, and provide you with a user manual.
And that's it!
After installation day, your energy supplier will provide you and your business with ongoing support. This includes access to data on your business's energy consumption, and advice on how to use this information to help easier manage your business bills.
Watch: Explaining the smart meter installation process
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There are a few important things you’ll need to prepare before your smart meter installation. Firstly, make sure you know where your current gas and electricity meters are located and check that they’re easy to get to. If you think this might be an issue or you believe your current gas and electricity meters are difficult to access or locate, please let your energy supplier know well in advance.
Your supplier will have been in touch to arrange this installation. They will never turn up on your doorstep unexpectedly. When the installer arrives, they'll take all reasonable steps to keep you safe. They should present you with a valid identity card including the company name and phone number, as well as their name and photograph. You can ask to see this if the installer does not present it upfront. You’ll need to be present during the installation, which will take around an hour for your gas meter and an hour for your electricity meter, during which time your energy supply will be cut off for a short period.
Once your smart meter has been installed, the installer will talk you through how to use your new in-home display. If a gas meter is being installed, the installer will also perform a visual safety check on your gas appliances as part of the installation. It’s worth remembering that smart meters are provided at no extra cost, so you will not have to pay your smart meter installer.
Business owners are benefitting from their smart meter
"We can see how, just by making small adjustments, we can save some money on our energy bill."
Aidan, Shoe Shop Co-owner
"It's helped me track energy costs. I can see how the business’s energy use fluctuates and take a closer look at why."
Hannah, Cafe Owner
"In our business, small things add up. Our smart meter helps us feel more in control of an area that otherwise feels unpredictable."
Asia and Gianluca, Bistro Owners
"Our smart meter saves us time by automatically sending meter readings to our supplier, it’s one less admin task."
Barrie, Restaurant Owner
"The best bit about having a smart meter is knowing where I am financially."
Claire, Women's Gym Owner
"I’ve a good idea of what my bill is going to be, so I don’t get any surprises when it comes in."
Marcelle, Tailoring Shop Owner
"Having a smart meter means I have more time to spend on my business, focusing on baking and customer service."
Hannah, Cafe Owner
"Our smart meter helps us see patterns over time, spot when usage is unusually high, and make adjustments quickly."
Asia and Gianluca, Cafe Bar Co-owners
"Having a smart meter provides peace of mind knowing our energy usage is being regularly monitored."
Barrie, Restaurant Owner
"The more you’re aware of your how much it’s costing to run a business, the better. A smart meter helps with budgeting."
Claire, Women's Gym Owner
Want to find out more?
Learn more about smart meters and how they can benefit your business using the links below...