November 11 2025 3 min read

Smart meter installation: Its significance and Energia App

These smart meters replace traditional analogue meters with intelligent technology that provides real-time insights into your energy usage.

Ireland has installed over two million smart meters in homes, farms and businesses nationwide, a key plank in its mission to become carbon neutral by 2050. According to ESB Networks, more than four out of five households now have a smart meter installed, helping them manage their electricity consumption more efficiently.

Supporting Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, these next-generation digital meters are being rolled out across the country in a bid to upgrade its electricity infrastructure. These smart meters replace traditional analogue meters with intelligent technology that provides real-time insights into your energy usage.

Why smart meter installation matters

Unlike traditional meters that require manual readings, smart meters automatically record the amount of electricity you use and send the data directly to your energy provider via secure wireless technology. This enables more accurate billing and significantly reduces the need for estimated bills.

A smart meter installation will allow you to see granular details about your energy usage, helping you reduce consumption and choose the most suitable smart meter tariff plan. It also supports energy demand flexibility and improves network services in areas through fault monitoring and system optimisation.

Other benefits of smart meters include access to the microgeneration scheme, where over 140,000 customers with smart meters who generate their own renewable electricity through solar panels and get paid for any excess energy exported back to the grid.

How Energia App enhances smart meter benefits

With the Energia Online App, you can transform your smart meter from a simple measurement device into a comprehensive energy management tool. The app provides an intuitive interface for monitoring and controlling your electricity consumption.

You can opt-in to get Energy Insights through the app which gives you access to detailed usage breakdowns showing exactly when and how you're consuming electricity throughout the day. Interactive graphs display your consumption patterns, making it easy to spot trends and identify opportunities for savings. You can also compare your usage week-on-week or month-on-month, helping you track the impact of any energy-saving measures you implement.

If you’re on time-of-use tariff smart plan with three-time bands, the app alerts you to upcoming peak and off-peak periods. This helps you shift energy use to cheaper times of the day, such as moving high-energy tasks away from the peak 5pm- 7pm window.

And if you have solar panels or other microgeneration systems, the Energia app tracks both your consumption and generation data in one place. You can see how much renewable energy you're producing, how much you're using versus exporting, and monitor your microgen payments.

The app also lets you set consumption goals and track your progress, whether you're trying to reduce energy usage by a specific percentage or stay within a monthly budget.

How can I get smart meter installed?

It’s a straightforward process. ESB Networks is systematically upgrading all electricity meters across Ireland as part of a phased regional rollout. You’ll receive advance notification by letter when your area is scheduled for installation, typically providing several weeks’ notice.

If you haven’t received your installation notification yet but want to get a smart meter sooner, you can contact ESB Networks directly on 1800 928 123 or 01 698 5005 to request prioritised installation.

Alternatively, you can request a smart meter by using the Smart Meter Sign Up Form, in which you’ll need to input your 11-digit Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) and address details.

For meters located outside your property, installation can proceed without you being home. However, if your meter is indoors, ESB Networks will arrange a convenient appointment time. The entire installation process is free and managed by qualified technicians who carry official identification.

Essential related reads:

FAQs: Smart meter installation

Who installs smart meters in Ireland?

ESB Networks is responsible for all smart meter installations in Ireland, carried out by their qualified technicians or authorised electrical contractors.

How much does it cost to have a smart meter installed?

Smart meter installation is completely free for all residential and commercial customers, with no upfront charges or hidden fees.

How long do smart meters take to install?

A smart meter installation typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, with an additional 30-day connection period before all smart features become available.

Can you go back from using a smart meter?

Once you switch to a smart tariff, your meter cannot be reconfigured back to a non-smart configuration under current industry regulations.