Vodafone’s initiative with the DCC (Data Communications Company) to connect smart meters across Britain with 4G has been recognised as the IoT Alliance of the Year in the 2024 IoT Breakthrough Awards.

The two companies have a 15-year agreement to build and operate dedicated 4G connectivity for smart meters across Britain. DCC’s network connects more than half of the homes in Britain to energy suppliers.

By using smart meters, consumers can see how much energy they’re using and how much they’re paying for it. They can then choose to reduce their overall usage and bills or move their usage away from times of peak demand.

Vodafone (www.vodafone.co.uk), with its long track record in IoT technology, is not only upgrading DCC’s network with 4G, it is also helping with the complex task of migrating meters from various sources onto the DCC network with little impact on customers.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards (iotbreakthrough.com/2024-winners) analyses the IoT industry and recognises the breakthrough innovators and leaders in a range of categories.

Angus Flett, DCC’s CEO, said: “Innovation is crucial in IoT and we’re thankful to IoT Breakthrough for recognising our work with Vodafone as a critical partner in the complex task of migrating meters onto our nationwide network, and in delivering a 4G option which will provide services for many years to come.”

DCC (www.smartdcc.co.uk) has delivered and operates a highly secure wireless data network connecting energy smart meters in homes and small businesses across Britain, linking them with energy suppliers, network operators and authorised third parties.

The DCC’s secure network serves as essential national infrastructure, operating to high security standards, as endorsed by the National Cyber Security Centre.

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Capita, DCC operates under licence. It is funded by, and serves, the energy industry. The network is fully operational.