SMDA Newsletter March 2026 Update

Here are the latest updates from the Smart Meter Device Assurance Scheme.

For more information on any of the items covered in this newsletter please contact smdaso@talan.com.

Current activities

Following Gemserv’s rebrand to Talan, please ensure your organisation has added @talan.com to your email allow list to prevent the emails being blocked or marked as spam.

The new email address for the SMDA Scheme Operator is  smdaso@talan.com.

First Device Assured Against June 2024 SEC Release Baseline

We are pleased to confirm that the first Device has successfully achieved Assurance against the SMDA June 2024 SEC Release Baseline.

Device details are now available on the Device Assurance Register on the SMDA website.

Manufacturers are encouraged to submit Devices for testing against this Baseline to ensure they are aligned with the latest SEC Release requirements.

SMDA Change Procedure Updated

The SMDA Change Procedure has been enhanced to improve transparency and clarity.

Changes are now classified as:

  • Major Changes – Introduction or removal of test scripts:
    • Full SEC Party consultation required
  • Minor Changes – Script naming updates or minor corrections
    • Advance notification provided, with opportunity to raise objections

These updates strengthen visibility and ensure stakeholders have greater opportunity to review and comment before implementation.

The updated procedure is available on the SMDA website.

Developments

Future Service Management (FSM) – No Impact

Following review, FSM will not impact SMDA operations and as the Scheme will continue interacting with DCC via its Helpdesk.

SMDA Sub-Committee Election Results

We are pleased to confirm the following newly elected members:

  • Andrew Willman (BEAMA) – Other SEC Party ESME Manufacturer
  • Martin Bell (EUA) – Other SEC Party GSME Manufacturer
  • Patrick Caiger-Smith (GEO) – Other SEC Party In-Home-Display Manufacturer
  • Nick Thomas (Macquarie) – Other SEC Party Meter Asset Provider
  • Matthew Alexander (SSEN) – Electricity Network Operator

New term commenced: 01 December 2025

Thank you to those of you who participated in the election process.

The following seats remain vacant:

  • 1 Large Supplier
  • 2 Small Supplier
  • 1 Other SEC Party In-Home Display Manufacturer

Looking Ahead

June 2026 SEC Release Baseline

Initial review indicates no expected changes to SMDA Test Scripts.

An Impact Assessment will be presented at the April 2026 SMDA Sub-Committee meeting.

Parse and Correlate

SMDA currently uses Parse and Correlate v3.0 in testing and will review the latest version (v6.0) to assess potential upgrade options.

DCC Connect Migration – Planned 2027

Migration to the cloud-based DCC Connect platform is planned:

  • Target cutover commences from Gamma connection: November 2026
  • SMDA Test House migration planned: Early 2027

If you wish to submit any feedback or questions, please contact SMDASO@talan.com. This can include testing issues that manufacturers would like to raise for discussion.

Best Wishes

Conroy Saunders, Head of SMDA Scheme Operator