Smart Meter Pricing Dispute: Energy Providers Challenge Network Operators

Energy providers Tibber and Rabot Energy are taking legal action against network operators who are imposing exorbitant fees for the installation of smart meters upon customer request. Reports indicate that some operators are charging as much as EUR973, while a typical fee is around EUR30.

The claims arise after the Federal Association of Consumer Centers expressed concerns over the substantial costs being levied for optional smart meter installations. Tibber has formally objected to Bayernwerk Netz GmbH, which has quoted installation fees up to EUR889, while Rabot Energy has raised similar concerns regarding LEW Verteilnetz GmbH, which reportedly charged EUR825.53 for an expedited installation of a smart meter.

According to Tibber's management, many network operators are intentionally setting these high prices to hinder the rollout of smart meters. The CEO of Rabot Energy further emphasized that these inflated charges obstruct access to innovative and flexible electricity tariffs, contradicting the goal of an affordable transition to digital energy solutions.

The issue stems from regulations outlined in the Meter Operation Act, which grants consumers the right to request the installation of a connected electricity meter from their local operator. While operators are allowed to charge a reasonable fee for this service, current interpretations suggest that a fee over EUR30 is generally considered excessive. A proposed amendment to the law aims to adjust this allowance to EUR100 in the future.

In response to the allegations, LEW Verteilnetz GmbH has stated that they will not comply with the demand for a cease-and-desist order, asserting that the charges reflect the actual costs of providing the installation service. A spokesperson mentioned that they plan to review and possibly adjust their one-time fees once the amended Meter Operation Act is enacted.

Consumer protection organizations have also begun to address the issue of high installation fees. The Federal Association of Consumer Centers has initiated several legal proceedings against network operators, focusing on the fairness of the fees listed in their pricing documents.

Currently, it has been noted that numerous operators are charging significantly more than the suggested EUR30 fee. For instance, Westnetz demands up to EUR973 depending on electricity consumption, while Mitteldeutsche Netzgesellschaft charges as much as EUR883, and Schleswig-Holstein Netz lists fees up to EUR927. In contrast, some providers, such as Enercity in Hanover and Stadtwerke München, are adhering to the recommended EUR30 fee.