Smart Metering Systems gearing up for resumption of meter installations

Glasgow-based Smart Metering Systems (SMS) is pushing the button on its smart meter rollout programme after a Covid-related hiatus.

The group yesterday outlined plans for a “phased and progressive” resumption of all non-essential field work from the start of June.

SMS has continued to provide essential and emergency field works to maintain critical infrastructure and energy supplies since the coronavirus outbreak and the temporary suspension of non-essential field work announced in March.

Its “remobilisation” is expected to be implemented over a period of three months, SMS noted, and will see the resumption of non-essential field-based activities, including the installation of smart meters.

This will be continually reviewed and governed by a “comprehensive” Covid-19 risk assessment developed in consultation with employees, contractors and customers.

“The risk assessment includes new stringent health and safety processes for engineers and field work, and additionally establishes later phases of the group’s return to work plan, including for office staff who successfully continue to work remotely,” SMS told investors.

Last month, the group assured investors that it expects underlying profitability and cashflows for the year to be in line with its earlier expectations despite the impact of Covid-19. The firm, which is headed by chief executive Alan Foy, also announced that it had completed the previously flagged sale of a minority of its meter assets to Equitix.

SMS has been at the forefront of the rollout of new smart meters to replace older nonconnected devices though the government-backed programme has faced delays.