Smart meter deal creates hundreds of jobs

Landis+Gyr will manufacture 16 million meters for British Gas

Smart meter manufacturer Landis+Gyr has signed a £600 million deal with British Gas to supply the utility with meters.

The contract will see Landis+Gyr manufacture and supply the majority of 16 million smart meters. As a result of the deal the company expects to double its 600-strong workforce and extend its manufacturing facilities to meet the demands of the roll-out.

British Gas managing director Chris Weston said: “Smart meters herald a new era for energy customers, bringing a transformation in the way they can manage energy use in their homes and businesses. Our £600m investment in Landis+Gyr’s smart metering solutions means we can provide smart meters cost-effectively to our customers, and bring them the benefits of this innovative technology as soon as possible.”

Landis+Gyr boss Andreas Umbach added: “We’ve been working with British Gas for the last three years to develop smart meters for its customers. This is the largest deal of its kind worldwide and sets a new industry standard for working in partnership. It allows us to achieve significant economies of scale in meter production, to expand our UK operations and to further establish the UK as a global centre of smart energy excellence. This is great news for the industry and for our employees.”

The deal forms part of the government's plan to see smart gas and electricity meters installed in every home and smaller business by the end of 2019.

In July this year British Gas announced plans to employ more than 1,000 smart energy experts, who will deliver the smart meter roll-out.

Smart meter benefits

• The home display will show real-time information about how much gas and electricity is being used, expressed in pounds and pence
• Customers will will be able to manage their energy use, therefore potentially saving money and reducing emissions
• Meter readings will be sent directly to energy suppliers, putting an end to estimated bills
• It will be easier and faster to switch suppliers in order to get the best deals