A smart meter is a digital energy meter that tracks not only how much energy you use but also when you use it. It can send usage data at short intervals to your energy retailer every 30 minutes via a secure wireless network. Smart meters have replaced traditional analog meters in many homes, especially those with modern energy systems.
If you’re planning to install solar panels or a battery and don’t yet have a smart meter, you’ll need to get one installed.
Getting a Smart Meter Installed with Wattle Powr
The process of obtaining a smart meter can be complex, but we are here to simplify it for you. We handle the smart meter service request on your behalf for two key reasons:
Enhanced Customer Experience: We aim to provide a better experience than dealing directly with energy retailers.
Technical Expertise: We manage the necessary technical details, such as the Permission to Connect, Certificate of Electrical Works, and other documentation needed for the meter exchange or reconfiguration.
How Do I Know If I Have a Smart Meter?
If your energy meter has a digital display, great news, you already have a smart meter!
What Are the Advantages of Smart Meters?
Compared to analog meters, smart meters offer several benefits:
Accurate, Real-Time Data: Smart meters provide precise information about your energy usage, making it easy to monitor your consumption.
Remote Readings: Energy companies can read your meter remotely, eliminating the need for manual readings.
Reduced Billing Errors: With precise data, you’re less likely to encounter billing mistakes.
Time-of-Use Tariffs: Smart meters allow you to switch to time-of-use tariffs, enabling potential savings by adjusting your usage during off-peak hours.
Support for Solar and Battery Systems: They enable you to connect solar panels and feed excess energy back into the grid, potentially earning feed-in tariffs.
How Do I Get a Smart Meter Installed?
Once your system is installed by us, we initiate the meter exchange or reconfiguration process with a Meter Coordinator. Here’s how it works:
The Meter Coordinator appoints a Meter Provider and notifies your energy retailer that a service order has been accepted for your site.
You’ll receive notifications from the Meter Provider about the exchange, and it’s crucial to inform them if you have any life support or continuous power needs at the property.
The entire process can take up to 20 business days from the date the service order is placed.
When Should I Get a Smart Meter Installed?
Most energy retailers won’t install a smart meter until your solar system is fully installed. At Wattle Powr, we work closely with the Meter Coordinator to align the meter exchange date as closely as possible to your installation date, minimising delays. Alternatively, you can request a meter exchange at any time directly through your energy retailer, though we can’t assist in that process.
What Happens After Installation?
After we complete your solar installation, including all quality and safety checks, we will raise a service request with the Meter Coordinator. The Coordinator informs your energy retailer to update your billing and configure your smart meter to account for the energy your system generates.
Please note that your energy retailer may charge a fee for this process. This fee can vary between energy retailers and networks, so it’s best to contact your retailer for specific details. Additionally, adding a solar system may affect your existing energy plan, so discussing this with your retailer is recommended.
Meter Reconfiguration vs. Meter Exchange: What’s the Difference?
When a new behind-the-meter energy system is installed or upgraded, your smart meter needs proper configuration to ensure you receive a feed-in tariff for excess energy returned to the grid.
Reconfiguration: If you already have a smart meter, the Meter (Data) Provider can usually reconfigure it remotely.
Exchange: If a new smart meter is required, a physical visit is needed to replace your current meter. This depends on the type of electricity meter you have installed.
How Long Will a Meter Reconfiguration or Exchange Take?
The process usually takes between 5 to 20 business days, depending on the complexity and coordination required.
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