The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has today published the approved Legacy Meter Replacement Plans of distribution network companies as required under the National Electricity Rules.
These plans are developed by distribution network companies in consultation with electricity retailers, metering coordinators and other stakeholders, and outline how Legacy Meters will be replaced with smart meters by 30 November 2030.
Electricity retailers are responsible for arranging for the replacement of Legacy Meters in accordance with the schedules in these plans.
Retailers and metering coordinators can also choose to replace meters ahead of schedule.
Background
In November 2024, the Australian Energy Market Commission published the framework for the Accelerating smart meter deployment, which requires each electricity distribution network company to develop a Legacy Meter Replacement Plan.
The AER’s role is to review a distributor’s Legacy Meter Replacement Plan to consider whether it meets the requirements as set out in the National Electricity Rules and to publish the approved plan on our website.
The AER is not required to assess the merits of or endorse these plans, however we will monitor electricity retailer compliance with these plans throughout the smart meter rollout.
We are also prioritising activities to ensure consumers are protected through the accelerated smart meter rollout as detailed in our Compliance and Enforcement Priorities for 2025-26.
It is important that all participants fully understand and comply with their responsibilities, so the replacement of Legacy Meters is timely, cost-effective, fair and safe.
More information
The approved plans can be found on the Legacy Meter Replacement Plan landing page, which also includes a summary of the requirements these plans must satisfy.
We encourage electricity retailers and customers seeking further information on the smart meter rollout to refer to the Smart meter rollout landing page.