Arqiva signs DCC contract to support smart metering services through to 2037
New contract to maintain services as industry transitions to a 4G national solution.
05 November 2026, Winchester UK – Arqiva has signed a new contract with the Data Communications Company (DCC) to continue providing smart metering communications services across Scotland and Northern England through to 2037.
Arqiva’s long range radio network provides smart-meter connectivity to approximately 4 million homes and businesses across the region.
The new contract includes updates to that solution, to maintain services as the industry transitions to a 4G national solution.
Arqiva’s partnership with DCC dates back to 2013, when it was contracted to build and operate the smart metering communications network serving Northern England and Scotland.
Mike Smith, Executive Director, Smart Utilities Networks at Arqiva, said:
“This agreement marks an important milestone in our long-standing relationship with DCC. It provides a clear framework for investing in our network and continuing to deliver robust smart metering connectivity over the next decade as the industry transitions to a national 4g/5g network.
“We are proud of our role in the smart energy metering roll-out, from the initial contract signing and the first connected comms hubs, to delivering connectivity to over 4 million comms hubs. We look forward to supporting DCC and energy suppliers through this next phase.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
About Arqiva
Arqiva is a trusted partner to the UK utilities sector, delivering resilient communications, data and network services that underpin critical operations. From water and energy networks to remote assets and field operations, we help utilities improve operational visibility, reduce risk, and navigate change with confidence. Protecting essential services today. Enabling smarter, more resilient infrastructure for tomorrow.
About Smart DCC
• DCC operates Great Britain’s national smart meter communications network, connecting more than 39 million smart meters and securely enabling the exchange of billions of messages each month. DCC also operates the Central Switching Service. Since its launch in 2022, the service has completed more than 54 million successful switches.
• DCC2 Ltd was awarded the new Smart Meter Communication Licence following a competitive tender process and assumed responsibility for the authorised business on 2 November 2026. DCC2 Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Smart Energy Code Company Ltd and operates under a not-for-profit, public-interest model.
