ESB Networks said today it has now installed over two million smart meters in homes, farms and businesses across every county in Ireland.
ESB said that more than four out of five households across the country now have a smart meter installed.
It said the roll out is continuing and has expanded to include the upgrade of three-phase whole current meters, thereby ensuring these customers will also have access to the benefits of smart meters.
Smart meters allow customers to see detailed information and insights into their energy use directly through the ESB Networks Online Account.
This can help them use electricity more efficiently, reduce consumption and to choose a suitable smart meter tariff from suppliers.
Other benefits include access to the microgeneration scheme with currently over 140,000 customers with smart meters who generate their own electricity from solar panels receiving payments for any excess electricity they sell back to the network.
Smart meters also reduce the need for estimated bills and will improve network services to customers in areas through fault monitoring and the prioritisation of system improvements nationally as well as supporting energy demand flexibility.
Nicholas Tarrant, Managing Director at ESB Networks, said that with a smart meter, customers can take more control of their electricity usage and the company is increasingly seeing customers sign up to their ESB Networks Online Account.
"This positive change empowers customers to choose the best tariff for their home by using their actual meter data on price comparison websites, making it easier to get accurate advice on which is the best tariff for them," he said.
"Smart metering is also a vital component of our Networks for Net Zero Strategy that is enabling a smarter, low carbon electricity network which will ultimately benefit all customers and help support the delivery of national climate targets," he added.
Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment Darragh O'Brien said that reaching over two million smart meter installs across the country demonstrates what a success the National Smart Metering Programme has been.
"Now, people are starting to really see the benefits. Smart meters provide individuals with more information, giving them more control over their usage and ultimately, electricity costs," Mr O'Brien said.
"As the rollout continues, I commend ESB Networks for their delivery. A smart meter in every home and business in the country will help us to meet our climate targets while empowering all across society to be a part of the country's clean energy transition," he added.
