Smart Meter Installation

Careers

Spurred by the cost of living crisis, there’s a backlog of consumers waiting for their energy provider to supply and fit a smart meter, boosting demand for installers nationwide …

What is a Smart Meter

A smart meter is a digital device that records the consumption of electricity, gas, or water in real time and automatically sends this information to the utility provider. This eliminates the need for manual readings and estimated bills, ensuring accurate billing. Smart meters also allow consumers to monitor their energy usage through online portals or mobile apps, helping them make informed decisions to reduce consumption and save money.

Beyond individual benefits, smart meters play a crucial role in improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the energy supply. They enable utility providers to detect and respond to outages more quickly and integrate renewable energy sources more effectively. Additionally, by promoting energy efficiency and reducing consumption, smart meters contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, benefiting the environment.

GET SMART!

Further information about smart meters can be found here:

• Smart meters: a guide for households
• Smart meters – the smart choice

What do smart meter installers do?

As a smart meter installer or technician, you typically work 35 to 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, installing advanced devices in homes and businesses. You may also be on a standby rota for jobs outside normal working hours, including weekends, which could offer overtime pay. Some installation sites might be outdoors, so be prepared to work in various weather conditions.

During the installation process, you will demonstrate to customers how to use their new meters and provide impartial energy efficiency advice, without the need to sell energy plans or tariffs. You might work for a major energy company or a smaller firm contracted to install smart meters. Employers usually provide a van for job-related travel, requiring a full valid driving licence.

Beyond installation, your role may extend to maintaining and repairing meters, offering job security well beyond the initial rollout period.

If you have good practical skills, enjoy interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, and seek a career that involves fieldwork, this could be the right job for you!

THE DAY JOB
A typical job might follow this pattern:
1. Visit the customer’s premises at the appointed time.
2. Remove the existing meter.
3. Fit the new smart meter.
4. Carry out tests to make sure the new meter is working correctly.
5. Explain to the customer how to read the information on the meter and how to alter the settings to get the most from it.
6. Answer any further questions the customer may have.

Have you got what it takes?

To become a smart meter installer in 2024, aspiring technicians need a blend of technical expertise, customer service skills, and regulatory compliance knowledge. The role demands proficiency in dual-fuel systems, requiring comprehensive training in both gas and electricity meter installation. This training typically involves completing technical courses such as a Level 2 Diploma in Smart Metering (Dual Fuel) or equivalent qualifications. Additionally, hands-on experience through apprenticeships can provide practical skills and formal certifications essential for the job.

Smart meter installers must possess strong technical abilities to handle complex systems and troubleshoot issues effectively. They need to be adept at commissioning smart meter communications, pairing in-home display (IHD) devices, and ensuring accurate data transmission to utility providers. Beyond technical skills, customer service is a crucial aspect of the role. Installers must be able to explain the functionality of smart meters to customers clearly, provide impartial energy efficiency advice, and address any concerns or questions, ensuring a positive customer experience.

Compliance with safety regulations and industry standards is vital. Installers must complete safety training to work safely with gas and electrical systems and undergo background checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) before entering customers' homes. Most employers provide a van for job-related travel, making a full, valid driving licence necessary. Physical fitness is also important, as the job can be physically demanding, involving work in various conditions, including outdoor environments.

Employers often offer ongoing training programs to keep installers updated with the latest technology and regulatory changes, ensuring continuous professional development. Large utility companies and smaller firms alike provide in-house training tailored to their specific equipment and procedures. Flexible working hours, including availability for evening and weekend shifts, may also be required to meet customer needs and installation targets.

How do I qualify as a smart meter installer?

To qualify as a smart meter installer in 2024, candidates must complete accredited training programs and obtain necessary certifications for both gas and electricity installations. Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills), funded by the National Skills Academy for Power (NSAP), offers an intermediate level (Level 2) apprenticeship in Dual Fuel. This program supports the government’s smart meter strategy and provides a combination of classroom learning and practical experience in installing both gas and electricity smart meters.

City & Guilds offers a Level 2 qualification in Smart Metering (7428), targeting individuals who will be installing gas or electrical smart meters. This qualification allows candidates to develop and practice the skills needed to install and maintain smart meters and communication devices. The gas and dual-fuel pathways of this program lead to Gas Safe registration, which is essential for working in the gas industry. Major utility companies also provide tailored training programs, and having qualifications in subjects like mathematics, English, science, design and technology, or electronics can be beneficial.

Another option is the Level 2 Diploma in Smart Metering, which offers three pathways: power, gas, or dual-fuel. This diploma helps candidates specialize in the type of meters they want to install. Training in gas or dual-fuel smart meters will lead to inclusion on the Gas Safe Register, demonstrating the qualification to install meters safely. Post-qualification, employers will certify competence through the Meter Operation Code of Practice Agreement (MOCOPA).

Prospective installers should also explore training schemes offered by individual energy suppliers, as these programs can provide additional hands-on experience and specialized knowledge. A full list of suppliers and details of their training schemes can be found via Ofgem. By completing these steps, candidates can ensure they are well-prepared to meet the technical and safety requirements of smart meter installation.

SMART METER INSTALLATION APPRENTICESHIPS
Many of the big energy companies offer apprenticeships in ‘smart metering – dual fuel’, which can take six to nine months to complete. These combine classroom-based learning with on-the-job experience, working alongside a qualified smart meter installer. You can also learn how to install smart meters if you are training to be a gas installation engineer on the Gas Industry Apprenticeship. As a trainee installer, you would combine technical training with work placements and receive mentoring from a qualified member of staff. Alternatively, use your favourite search engine to discover more options. Or browse the government’s apprenticeship website or Find Apprenticeships, both of which allow you to search for apprenticeship opportunities by area of interest and location.

You could also work towards the level 2 Diploma in Smart Metering. This qualification has three options – power, gas or dual-fuel – and you choose the one that covers the meters you want to work with. Training in gas or dual-fuel smart meters will also lead to your inclusion on the Gas Safe Register, which demonstrates that you are qualified to install meters safely. Once qualified, your employer will also certify you as competent through the Meter Operation Code of Practice Agreement (MOCOPA).

Check out the individual energy suppliers’ websites for details of their training schemes. You can find a full list of suppliers via Ofgem (see ‘Useful info’).

Use your ELC

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of learning can be taken, provided it is offered by an approved provider listed on the ELCAS website and is at level 3 or above. For full details of how to make the most of your ELC, refer to the in-depth features elsewhere on the Quest website

Finding a job

Due to the ongoing, extended rollout of the UK Smart Metering Programme, prospects for trained staff remain strong. The effort to install smart meters in homes and small businesses is well underway, and there is a continuous demand for skilled installers. To get involved, you should apply directly to energy suppliers or installation contractors for trainee positions. Additionally, many opportunities are available through apprenticeship schemes that offer hands-on training and formal qualifications.

Employment opportunities exist with a variety of organizations, including energy companies, construction firms, specialist installation companies, and housing associations. With experience, you could advance to roles such as team leader or estimator, or even set up your own installation business. Further training can open pathways to becoming an energy efficiency consultant or moving into specialized roles in gas or electrical engineering within an energy company.

Even as the initial rollout phase progresses, the need for maintenance and repair technicians will persist. Experts in the field suggest that "no programme is ever complete and there will continue to be a wave effect," indicating an ongoing role for the smart meter installation workforce. This ensures long-term employment opportunities as the industry continues to evolve and expand.

What could you earn?

In 2024, the earning potential for smart meter installers varies based on experience, location, and the employer. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

Entry-Level Positions:

• Starting Salary: For those just beginning their career as a trainee or apprentice smart meter installer, the starting salary typically ranges from £20,000 to £25,000 per year. Apprenticeship programs may offer slightly lower initial pay but provide valuable training and qualifications.

Qualified Installers:

• Mid-Level Salary: Once you have completed your training and gained some experience, your salary can increase to between £25,000 and £35,000 per year. This range reflects the growing expertise and efficiency that comes with experience.

Experienced and Specialized Roles:

• Senior Salary: Experienced smart meter installers, especially those who take on additional responsibilities such as team leadership or specialist roles, can earn between £35,000 and £45,000 per year. Those with additional qualifications or expertise in dual-fuel installations may command higher salaries.
• Specialist Positions: Moving into more specialized areas, such as energy efficiency consulting or advanced electrical and gas engineering, can further increase earning potential, often exceeding £45,000 annually.

Self-Employment and Contract Work:

• Potential Earnings: Installers who choose to set up their own installation businesses or work as independent contractors have the potential to earn more, depending on the volume of work they take on and their reputation. Self-employed installers might earn anywhere from £40,000 to £60,000 or more, depending on their client base and efficiency.

Additional Compensation:

• Overtime and Bonuses: Many employers offer overtime pay for work done outside regular hours, including evenings and weekends. Performance bonuses and incentives for meeting installation targets can also boost overall earnings.

Overall, the earning potential for smart meter installers in 2024 is promising, with opportunities for salary growth as you gain experience and take on more advanced roles within the industry.

To see our full list of Smart Meter training courses Click here