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DCC chief steps down after seven years

The Data Communications Company (DCC) is on the hunt for a new chief executive after announcing Angus Flett will depart during the summer.

Flett will step down from his role at the end of August after more than seven years in the role.

The DCC – which runs the network underpinning Britain’s smart meters – said that Flett has been discussing his resignation with the board for more than a year.

A DCC spokesperson told Utility Week: “Following almost eight successful years, Angus has decided it’s time to leave his role to allow for a new CEO to take DCC through its licence renewal process.

“He is staying in post throughout the summer to support the board in its transition to a new CEO.”

The announcement of Flett’s departure comes just days after government figures revealed that the smart meter rollout has dropped to its lowest level in years.

The government’s latest installation figures reveal that during the first three months of 2024, just over 780,000 smart and advanced meters were installed in the UK.

Outside of the first pandemic lockdown, that is the lowest number of installations recorded during a quarter since Q2 2016, when 639,000 homes and businesses had smart meters fitted.

The only quarter to see a lower level of installations during the intervening period was the second three months of 2020 when just 137,000 smart meters were fitted, with lockdown restrictions hampering the rollout.

Commenting on his departure Flett said: “It has been a privilege to lead the DCC on its journey to enable a smart energy system focussed on decarbonisation and social good.

“The future for the DCC to continue its mandate is exciting and I wish the organisation all success.”

Under Flett’s tenure almost 31 million smart meters and more than 60% of all homes in Great Britain have been connected to the smart meter network, with more than 99.3% of all homes and businesses across the country now covered by the network.

DCC chair Richard McCarthy said: “Under Angus’ leadership the DCC has delivered Britain’s smart meter network.

“This first of its kind infrastructure is now playing a critical role at the heart of the energy system helping to keep bills down, protect British energy security and decarbonise our energy system. I want to thank Angus for his significant contribution and legacy.”