Smart Meter Communication Licence tender

As part of the DCC Review process, we must identify and select a Successor Licensee to hold the new Smart Meter Communication Licence (SMCL). We will select a new Licensee by running an open competitive tender process.

The Authority gives notices, pursuant to regulation 7(2) of the smart meter tender regulations, that it has commenced the tender exercise on 8 September 2025.

Take part in the tender process

We have started the tender process. Read and take part in the tender process on the Ofgem tender site. You need to register before submitting your application.

Applicants will be assessed on a range of criteria including technical capability, financial standing, delivery approach and alignment with regulatory objectives. Further details will be made available at each stage of the selection process.

Background

Following an Expression of Interest in March 2025, we decided to run a competitive selection process to identify the Successor Licensee for the SMCL. The process will be run in line with the Electricity and Gas (Competitive Tenders for Smart Meter Communication Licences) Regulations 2012 (‘the 2012 Regulations’).

The process begins with a qualification stage that is open to any applicant. Applicants who demonstrate eligibility, capability and capacity to deliver the obligations of the new SMCL will be invited to a closed proposal stage after which we will either run a best and final offer stage or award the Licence directly. 

Timeline

Expression of interest and questionnaire, March 2025

Evaluation criteria published, July 2025

Licence application competition opens, September 2025

Qualification stage, 8 September 2025 – to 6 October 2025

Proposal stage, October 2025 to January 2026

If required, Best and final offer stage, February 2026

Successor licensee selected, February or March 2026