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Electricity & gas · Switzerland
Checked 2026-09-27

📟 Smart meter in Switzerland: do I have to accept one?

The short answer

A smart meter sends readings automatically, so your bill is based on real use. Whether you can refuse one differs per country.

📜 The rules in Switzerland

Smart meter

Grid operators must replace at least 80% of old meters with smart meters by the end of 2027. You cannot refuse; if the operator accepts a refusal, it may charge extra reading costs (about CHF 90-120 a year is considered normal).

Official source: elcom.admin.ch · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

  1. Check the letterWho installs it, the grid operator or the supplier, and when?
  2. Know your rightsSee below what the rules in Switzerland are on the rollout and on refusing.
  3. Protect your dataAsk what data is collected and how often. You can usually see your own use online.
  4. Report problemsIf the meter seems wrong, ask the grid operator for a meter test.

📇 Who to contact

Eidgenössische Elektrizitätskommission ElComSupervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules📞 +41 58 462 58 33🔗 www.elcom.admin.ch
Stiftung für Konsumentenschutz (SKS)Independent advice for consumersFor advice, template letters and a second opinion🔗 www.konsumentenschutz.ch

❓ Questions

Does a smart meter cost extra?

The costs are usually part of the network charges. Some countries charge people who refuse.

Is my data safe?

Meter data is protected by data-protection law, and you decide who else may see detailed data.

What if the readings look wrong?

Ask the grid operator to check the meter.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→🧾Wrong or high bill→💸Can’t pay the bill→🏚️Supplier went bust→

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