Consultation outcome

Proposals regarding setting standards for smart appliances

This consultation has concluded

Download the full outcome

Government response to consultation on proposals regarding smart appliances

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Detail of outcome

The government intends to take powers to set regulatory requirements for smart appliances through primary or secondary legislation, when parliamentary time allows, and subject to the outcome of negotiations on the UK’s future relationship with the EU. Any regulatory requirements will be based on the principles of:

  • interoperability
  • data privacy
  • grid-stability and cyber-security
  • consumer protection

In tandem, the government will work with industry to develop technical standards for smart appliances as necessary. The government will align internationally whenever that is in line with the UK’s obligations and interests.

Detail of feedback received

We received 47 responses from a range of stakeholders, including:

  • academics
  • consumer groups
  • energy suppliers
  • industry bodies
  • manufacturers
  • network operators

There was broad support for government to take powers to allow for regulation of smart appliances. A number of respondents cited the need to align with international approaches.

The consultation also sought views on the potential detail of regulation following the taking of any powers: respondents provided valuable information to inform ongoing policy development.


Original consultation

Summary

We're seeking views on proposals for setting standards for smart appliances, to support the transition towards a smarter, more flexible, cleaner and more affordable energy system.

This consultation ran from
to

Consultation description

The Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan, published July 2017, stated that we would consult on setting standards for smart appliances, based on the principles of interoperability, data protection, grid- and cyber-security. This consultation sets out our proposals regarding smart appliance policy.

The government considers that smart appliances need to be regulated in order to maximise the opportunities for consumers of demand-side response in homes and businesses, while ensuring any risks associated with smart appliances are managed effectively.

We are seeking views from stakeholders on this policy, and specifically on the detail of these proposed principles.

The consultation stage impact assessment provides a preliminary analysis of the costs and benefits associated with options for standards for smart appliances.

Documents

Proposals regarding smart appliances

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Proposed primary regulation of smart appliances: consultation stage impact assessment

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Published 16 March 2018
Last updated 16 October 2018 + show all updates
  1. Govt response published

  2. First published.