Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has unveiled a Smart Electricity Meters Design Plan for Northern Ireland, saying the move could help households and businesses lower their electricity costs while improving the resilience of the local grid.

Publishing the plan, the Minister confirmed smart meters will end estimated bills and provide clear, real-time data on consumption to help people understand how much power they use and when they use it.

Minister Archibald said: "The cost of energy here, driven by volatile fossil fuel prices, is not fair and not sustainable for homes and businesses, as we have seen in the months following the war on Iran.

"Today's announcement marks an important step forward for the north, supporting consumers to better manage their electricity usage and helping to reduce electricity bills, as well as creating greater resilience in our local grid."

The Department noted that uptake elsewhere has already been significant, with around two million smart meters installed in the Republic of Ireland and 22 million in Britain. Evidence from those markets indicates that the technology has spurred innovation and smarter tariffs from suppliers, cutting bills for many customers.

The Minister added: "The Design Plan published today sets out how smart meters will be introduced here in a carefully planned, consumer focused way. It is anticipated that the first smart meters will be installed in homes around the beginning of 2028, with a roll out lasting three years.

"I'd like to reassure the public that they do not have to do anything now. NIE Networks and your electricity supplier will be in touch at the right time, and you will be supported through the process at every step.

"There will be no upfront cost for installation, and no loss of choice. Fixed tariffs and prepayment options will continue to be available, and smart tariffs will be optional. This is about giving people better information and ensuring that those who are most vulnerable can choose to reduce their electricity bills." Businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises, will also be covered by the rollout. Smart meters are expected to improve billing accuracy, reduce disputes, support cash flow, and contribute to a more reliable electricity network.

Pat Austin, Director, National Energy Action Northern Ireland, said: "Smart meters can deliver real benefits for households by helping people better understand their energy use and avoid estimated bills. A fair and inclusive rollout will be important to ensure vulnerable households can benefit from greater control over their energy costs and enjoy warmer, healthier homes."

Gemma McHale, Head of Smart Metering at NIE Networks, added: "NIE Networks welcomes publication of the Smart Electricity Meters Design Plan. Smart meters will help deliver a more efficient electricity system and help customers get better value, and we look forward to working with partners to develop a robust programme and delivery timeline."

Noyona Chundur, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, said: "Smart meters will help consumers better understand and manage their electricity use, supporting informed choices that can reduce bills and improve energy efficiency. We welcome the Design Plan and will continue working with partners to ensure strong consumer protections throughout the rollout."

John French, Chief Executive, Utility Regulator, concluded: "We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the Department and key stakeholders on the successful rollout of smart meters across Northern Ireland. Developing the necessary regulatory frameworks to support the design plan is essential to ensuring consumer protection and enabling the full range of benefits that smart meters can deliver."

According to the Department, there will be no additional upfront charge for consumers because meters are funded through electricity bills. Smart meters will also help NIE Networks run the system more efficiently, which can reduce costs for consumers over time. The rollout will prioritise protections and support for vulnerable customers to ensure the benefits are accessible to all. Northern Ireland has around 932,000 electricity connections across domestic and non-domestic users. The Smart Electricity Meters Design Plan is available on the Department's website.