Suppliers use smart meters to settle time-of-use and EV tariffs. Without a working smart meter, many of those tariffs are unavailable and you may sit on a flat rate. A traditional meter is not made smart by a smart charger. Book the meter with your supplier, and tell them you are fitting a charger so they do not treat it as a casual upgrade. Some homes have signal or wiring issues that delay the exchange. You can still install a charger and use a manual off-peak habit only if the tariff you are on actually has off-peak prices. Many flat rates do not.
What goes wrong with smart meters and EV tariffs
The mistake is a charger set to a night schedule on a flat-rate tariff, saving nothing, or a second meter you did not need.
Point at smart meters and EV tariffs in the pack
Ask the supplier, in writing, which tariffs you can have with your current meter and when a smart meter can be fitted.
Smart meters and EV tariffs
If the meter is already smart and the in-home display is dead, the meter may still be fine. Ask the supplier to check communications.
- Smart meters enable many EV tariffs
- The charger does not replace the meter
- Book the exchange early
- A flat rate ignores your clever schedule
Smart meters and EV tariffs: questions for the first visit
Do not remove a meter yourself to 'make space' for a charger. That is the supplier's equipment.
How smart meters and EV tariffs moves the job
The meter appointment can be the long pole. Book it when you book the electrician.
Frequently asked questions
Can I refuse a smart meter and still charge?
Yes. You will pay the tariff available without one, which may be a flat rate.
What is SMETS2?
The current generation of smart meters. Your supplier will fit what they can support. You do not shop for it like a wallbox.
Will the charger installer move the meter?
No. They work downstream. The supplier moves the meter.
Do I need half-hourly readings?
Your supplier needs the metering their tariff requires. You need to give them access.
Core buying guides
Start with these high-intent guides, then dig into the rest of the library.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local EV Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.