Smart meter: obligation to install and your rights

Intelligent metering systems (smart meters) are being installed gradually. For certain consumption groups the installation is mandatory, for others optional. The costs are capped by law, and strict data protection requirements apply to handling your consumption data. You have information and cooperation rights.

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Your chances of getting your money back

The installation of intelligent metering systems follows the statutory rollout plan. From certain annual consumption levels or with your own generation (e.g. PV) it can be mandatory; the fees are limited by law (Messstellenbetriebsgesetz).

You have a right to transparent information about installation, costs and data use. Strict data protection and security requirements apply to your consumption data; any use beyond that requires a basis.

What you should do now

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1. Clarify the installation obligation
Based on your annual consumption or own generation, check whether installation is mandatory or optional for you.
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2. Check the costs
The annual fees are capped by law, check whether the charged costs are within the limits.
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3. Observe data protection
Find out which data is collected and transmitted; any further use requires a legal basis.
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4. Coordinate the appointment
You must enable the installation to a reasonable extent; clarify appointment and access with the metering operator.

How to spot the scam

The charged annual costs exceed the statutory upper limits.
More data is collected or transmitted than necessary.
The installation is announced without comprehensible information.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to have a smart meter installed?

For certain consumption groups (for example from certain annual consumption levels or with your own electricity generation) the installation of an intelligent metering system is mandatory under the statutory rollout. For other households it is optional. You must enable the installation to a reasonable extent.

What does it cost?

The annual fees for metering operation are capped by law and depend on consumption group or generation. Check whether the charged costs are within these upper limits, and dispute higher demands.

What about data protection?

Strict data protection and security requirements apply to your consumption data. Only what is necessary may be collected and transmitted; any further use requires a legal basis. You have a right to transparent information about the data processing.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

Create a letter to the metering operator Check a suspicious message

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.