OFGEM published today a guidance of its price-control of the Data- and Communication Company who is commissioned to establish and manage the data and communications network to connect smart meters to the business systems of energy suppliers, network operators and other authorised service users of the network.
However, OFGEM, finds it is important that DCC receives sufficient funds to fulfil its role and deliver high quality services. It is equally important that we hold DCC to account for its costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers. The price control mechanism under its Licence is designed to ensure that the costs DCC incurs to provide its services are economic and efficient.
Interesting, for DCC, OFGEM has got a price control mechanism, while energy suppliers are being accused of taking advantage of the free market and charging customers as they wish. While DCC cost will only make up a small fraction of the total energy bill, suppliers charges make up the bulk, and yet there is nothing stopping them to rip us off.