Understanding smart meters in the ACT

Smart meters are changing the way we use electricity at home and in businesses. These devices have many benefits, like accurate billing and better electricity management. Nearly 40% of households in the ACT already have a smart meter installed.

What is a smart meter?

Across Australia, old analogue electricity meters are being replaced with smart meters.

A smart meter is a digital device that record your electricity use throughout the day and send readings to your provider. This means no more manual meter reads. They are also an important step towards getting new technology, such as solar panels and batteries, and giving you more options to manage costs.

Since 1 December 2017, all new or replacement electricity meters in the ACT must be smart meters.

Your energy use and personal details are protected by Australian privacy laws. Only registered energy market participants, such as your retailer, can access your smart meter data.

Benefits of smart meters

Below are some of the benefits a smart meter can offer your household or business.

  • Smart meters ensure you are billed for the exact amount of electricity you use. This avoids the need for estimated bills or for physical meter reads.
  • Smart meters can help you understand your energy use. Many electricity retailers have apps that let you see your daily electricity use anytime, without waiting for your bill.
  • In the future, smart meters will help unlock enhanced features for products like batteries or electric vehicles. If you have solar panels, a smart meter will allow you to sell solar energy to the grid.
  • If your power goes out, smart meters help your energy provider by sending real-time data. This means they can locate the issue faster and get your power back on sooner.
  • Many electricity retailers also offer extra services with smart meters. These could include things like alerts for high usage and tips for saving energy.

Talk to your electricity retailer to learn more about how a smart meter can benefit your specific situation. You can also learn more about how to get the best deal on your electricity bill.

Getting a smart meter

In the ACT, all new and replacement electricity meters must be smart meters. If you need a new meter or are building a new home, a smart meter will be installed.

The national smart meter rollout is automatic and happening until 2030. If you need a smart meter, you’ll get a letter, text, or email from your electricity company before your smart meter is installed.

National smart meter rollout

The way we use energy is changing, and older electricity meters weren’t designed to work with new technology.

Many homes and small businesses already have a smart meter – especially if you have solar panels or your home was built after 2017. The national smart meter rollout aims for everyone to have one by 2030.

In the past, smart meters were installed when:

  • you got a new electricity connection
  • your old meter stopped working
  • you requested one to support new technology like solar panels, batteries, or electric vehicles.

To support Australia's energy future, including the shift to these new technologies, a faster and more coordinated approach was needed. Under the national rollout, all old meters will be replaced with new smart meters in a planned way, according to a schedule for each network area.

For most people, it’s a simple swap and there’s nothing you need to do. When it’s your turn – whether you own or rent your home or premises – your electricity company will contact you to arrange the installation and let you know what to expect.

Consumer protections

The national rollout is guided by rules set by the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC). The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) informs electricity companies on the rules they must follow when rolling out smart meters to their customers and monitors them to make sure they are following those rules.

From 1 December 2025, several key updates to the National Electricity Rules and National Energy Retail Rules will impact how meters are replaced and how consumers are protected. These are:

  • Customers no longer have the option to refuse the installation of a new meter.
  • No upfront fees at the time of installation.
  • For two years after a smart meter is installed, your electricity retailer cannot change certain parts of your plan without your permission. This applies to changes that are only happening because a smart meter was installed.
    • There are some exceptions to this rule. Contact your retailer to understand these safeguards better.

Learn more about consumer rights and smart meters on the Australian Energy Regulator website.

If you have a complaint about your electricity plan or smart meter installation you should first contact your electricity retailer. The installation notice they sent you explains how to make a complaint.

If the problem isn't solved, or you're not happy with their response, you can contact the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). ACAT functions as the energy and water ombudsman for the ACT and may be able to assist.

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ACT Government supports

Do you want to learn how you can keep your home comfortable and save on your energy bills? These programs can help:

  • The Sustainable Home Advice service is your one stop shop to get information on how to reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. You can also learn about what ACT Government supports and rebates you may be eligible for.
  • Get a free in-home energy assessment from one of our energy experts. Learn the best actions you can take to make your home more comfortable and reduce your energy use and costs. Assessments are tailored for renters and homeowners.
  • The Home Energy Support Program can provide up to $5,000 in rebates to homeowners with an eligible concession card. It can help with upfront costs when installing rooftop solar, energy efficient appliances and ceiling insulation.
  • The Home Energy Efficiency Program can provide help with draught-proofing and window coverings. It also offers free expert advice on lowering your electricity, gas and water bills.
  • The Sustainable Household Scheme can provide zero-interest loans of up to $15,000. It supports the installation of energy-efficient electric appliances and rooftop solar systems. It can also help pay for electric cars and EV charging.
  • The ACT Government offers free workshops to help Canberran’s access detailed energy saving advice, tools and resources.
  • Make Your Next Choice Electric helps you create your own energy transition plan including product recommendations from Australia’s leading consumer advocacy group, CHOICE.
  • The ACT Government has partnered with electricity retailers to develop a utilities hardship fund. Customers who need financial support can receive $300 vouchers or rebates to help pay their electricity bills. Access this service by calling your provider.
  • Concession card holders can access the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate through their energy supplier to help with energy bills. You can get up to $800 per year back on your electricity, gas, water or sewage costs.
  • For health advice on how to stay safe in the warmer weather, visit the ACT Government website.
  • Discover more energy savings tips and advice for your household.
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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.