01 July 2025
Running a business in the UK right now requires key decision makers to monitor costs closely, with energy bills high on the agenda. Add in the pressure to become more energy efficient and tick sustainability boxes, and suddenly, tracking your usage isn't just smart, it’s a necessity.
That’s where smart meters come in. These devices are becoming more common across small business premises, and for good reason. They’re not just about more accurate bills, although that does help; they give you access to real-time data that can significantly change how your business uses energy.
In this guide, we will take a closer look at why more small businesses are making the switch to using a smart meter and why now might be the right time for you.
What is a Smart Meter?
Think of a smart meter as the upgrade your old energy meter never had. Instead of giving you a reading every few months, a smart meter tracks exactly how much energy you’re using in real-time.
It then sends that data automatically to your supplier, and often directly to your own energy dashboard, so you can see where your energy is going. That means no more guesswork, no more meter readings, and no more nasty surprises at the end of the month.
Smart meters are available for both electricity and gas, giving you a full picture of your energy use.
Breaking it down further and looking at how it can benefit your business is important for a variety of reasons, but we view the following as some of the most significant:
No More Estimated Bills
That’s right: you get charged for exactly what you use. That alone can prevent overpaying, or worse, underpaying and getting hit with a surprise top-up bill later.
Spot Inefficiencies Quickly
Seeing your usage in real time helps you catch energy waste before it becomes a habit. Heating systems kicking in before anyone arrives? Smart meters show you that, and give you the chance to act quickly to improve efficiency.
Track Trends Over Time
Many platforms linked to smart meters let you compare usage by day, week, or month. It's a hugely helpful benefit when it comes to budgeting and for identifying where savings could be made.
Data to Support Decarbonisation
Having clear usage data can support sustainability goals, especially if you're working to reduce your carbon footprint or improve energy efficiency.
Some small businesses in the UK may already be required to install smart meters, particularly if they use higher amounts of electricity or gas. While smart meters aren’t currently compulsory for all, the government is encouraging widespread adoption as part of a national upgrade to the energy system, and future regulations may make installation mandatory.
Smart meters can also support future energy regulations or environmental targets that may apply to your sector.
Thankfully, upgrading isn’t at all a complicated process. Here’s how most businesses get the process started:
1. Check your eligibility: If you don’t already have one, your supplier can confirm whether you qualify for an upgrade.
2. Book the installation: It typically takes 1–2 hours per meter, with minimal disruption
3. Start tracking your data: From the moment it's installed, you'll have access to a much clearer view of how your business uses energy.
Here at SEFE Energy, we help businesses assess their smart meter readiness, manage the upgrade process, and most importantly, make use of the data once it’s flowing. It’s not just about installing tech; it’s about building a smarter energy strategy around it.
Make the Switch to a Smart Meter Today
In today’s energy landscape, small businesses can’t afford to operate without a clear view of energy costs. Smart meters give you the visibility and control to cut waste, improve performance, and plan with confidence.
Want to find out what smart metering could do for your business? Get in touch with our team today
Who Can Get a Smart Meter?
Smart meters are generally available to:
Limitations to Consider
Thankfully, upgrading isn’t at all a complicated process. Here’s how most businesses get the process started:
1. Check your eligibility: If you don’t already have one, your supplier can confirm whether you qualify for an upgrade.
2. Book the installation: It typically takes 1–2 hours per meter, with minimal disruption
3. Start tracking your data: From the moment it's installed, you'll have access to a much clearer view of how your business uses energy.
Here at SEFE Energy, we help businesses assess their smart meter readiness, manage the upgrade process, and most importantly, make use of the data once it’s flowing. It’s not just about installing tech; it’s about building a smarter energy strategy around it.
