Smart meters will facilitate demand side response (DSR) through a number of load control features supported by the smart metering system.

DSR could give consumers new options to help them manage their electricity usage, allowing them to schedule usage for particular times or to vary it on demand to save money.

Widespread use of load control could also allow better and more cost-effective balancing of supply and demand. It would reduce the costs associated with unexpected peaks and help to provide security of supply as well as helping with the integration of renewables. This could potentially reduce expenditure on building generation capacity and reinforcing the transmission and distribution networks.

techUK members are responsible for the technology that will facilitate domestic DSR and the wider smart energy systems. We are currently working to understand the consumer proposition, a and build consumer awareness and confidence in the market. For further information on our work in smart energy and the connected home contact: