Vodafone is expanding its role in the UK’s smart metering programme, working with Data Communications Company (DCC) to enhance the nation’s energy infrastructure.

This builds on their initial partnership, where Vodafone committed to providing 2G and 4G mobile connectivity for smart meters, enabling the transmission of data from individual meters to the central system.

As part of a newly-awarded contract, Vodafone will now provide fixed connectivity between energy suppliers and the data service platform (DSP), the secure system at the heart of the smart meter network.

The DSP, operated by DCC on behalf of the industry, acts as the central intelligence for smart metering, receiving data from meters and enabling energy companies to access that information as needed. Vodafone already supplies the 2G and 4G mobile connectivity that allows data to travel from individual meters to the DSP. With this new scope, the company will now also deliver the fixed-line connectivity that links energy providers directly to the DSP.

“Smart meters are central to Britain’s journey towards a more sustainable, efficient energy system, and the data service platform is the intelligence behind it all,” said Nick Gliddon, CEO of Vodafone Business in the UK. “At Vodafone, we’re proud to expand our role in this national infrastructure by providing the fixed connectivity between energy providers and the DSP. This builds on our existing delivery of mobile connectivity, helping ensure that critical data flow securely and reliably across the ecosystem.”

Chris Lovatt, DCC (www.smartdcc.co.uk) chief executive officer, added: Smart metering is central to Britain’s energy transition to net zero and the DSP is fundamental to the smart system. As part of the transition, it is crucial that we drive the best possible outcomes for our customers and energy consumers. The enhanced design and contracts delivered by this new DSP will enable DCC to deliver better value for money, while driving flexibility, stability and security.”

Vodafone (www.vodafone.co.uk) joins a collaborative effort that includes IBM (www.ibm.com), which will build a new cloud-based DSP, and CGI, the system integrator and incumbent DSP provider. Together, these organisations are supporting the next phase of the UK’s smart metering journey, one focused on security, scalability and sustainability.

The project marks a significant step forward in modernising the UK’s energy data infrastructure, enabling smarter energy use and supporting the nation’s net zero ambitions.