We are reviewing the regulatory framework for the Data Communications Company (DCC). This is to put in place new arrangements following the expiry of the Smart Meter Communication Licence in 2027. This consultation focuses on interim changes to the Smart Meter Communication Licence to support our policy conclusions on transition to a new cost control regime and to help administer the final Price Control at the end of the Licence term.
We want to hear views from anyone who has an interest in smart metering. We welcome responses from Data Communications Company (DCC) customers, include including energy suppliers, distribution network operators, customer groups and other current or potential future users of the DCC network.
The Data Communications Company (DCC) manages the communications and data transfer service for smart metering. DCC operates under the Smart Meter Communication Licence (the “Licence”) which is due to expire in September 2027. We are reviewing the regulatory arrangements for DCC ahead of the Licence expiry (“DCC review”).
In December 2024 we published a policy consultation focused on the process for determination of the Licensee’s Allowed Revenue (cost control).
We concluded that consultation on 09 May 2025. This consultation supports the implementation of our policy conclusions.
We are consulting on proposed modifications to the Smart Meter Communication Licence in four areas:
Your feedback is valuable and will help us develop the regulation for DDC. Your views on this consultation will help shape the future DCC cost control framework.
Please send your feedback to Jakub Komarek on dccregulation@ofgem.gov.uk by 6 June 2025. You can send a PDF (pdf), Word (doc) or Excel (xls) document as part of your response.