MHHS pocket guide: Everything you need to know

The Market-Wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) programme represents the largest shake up in the electricity metering sector for decades. It’s important for businesses to stay informed about how their energy usage data is evolving and to consider any adjustments they might need to make to their metering systems.

What is MHHS?

MHHS is a new way of settling electricity supplies in the UK by using half-hourly (HH) data. Many consumers currently rely on non-half-hourly (NHH) settlement, which uses estimated profiles. With MHHS, you’ll switch to actual consumption data every 30 minutes. This change will lead to more accurate billing, better integration of renewable energy, and exciting opportunities for businesses to optimise their energy use and cut costs.

Who needs to comply?

Since MHHS is mandatory, every business will need to get on board, and it will affect all types of electricity supplies, including:

• Half-Hourly (HH) and Non-Half-Hourly (NHH) metered sites
• Domestic and commercial customers
• Unmetered supplies

Under this new system, your electricity data will be settled using HH data, no matter what type of meter you have.

When will the programme begin?

The transition to MHHS is expected to begin in September this year and continue through to 2027. During this time, meters will gradually shift to the new settlement model.

Are there any exemptions?

MHHS is mandatory for all electricity supplies, so there are no exemptions.

However, while you can’t opt out of MHHS, you can choose which metering systems will work best for you. Consumers who are looking to swap suppliers will also have the option to move to one who hasn’t migrated to MHHS just yet.

What do I need to know about my meter portfolio?

With MHHS on the horizon, getting familiar with your meter portfolio will make the transition easier. The market will be divided into two main meter types:

• Smart Meters (SMETS): These are typically used in homes and smaller commercial settings. They automatically share data through the Data Communications Company (DCC).
• Advanced Meters (AMR): These are more common in larger commercial and industrial sites. They provide detailed, high-quality data and give you more control over how you manage that data.

At Amber, we recommend going with AMR meters over Smart Meters, as they offer richer detail on your energy consumption and help with better energy management.

Why your metering is so important?

Having a well-functioning metering portfolio is key under the new MHHS programme. If there are communication issues or if your systems are traditional/dumb meters, it could delay access to your energy data and increase your risk of estimated billing. The good news is that most AMR meters will be able to switch over to HH data without being exchanged, helping to reduce disruption. Now is an excellent time for businesses to take stock of their metering infrastructure and identify any upgrades they might need.
 
MHHS isn’t just about keeping up with regulations, it’s about seizing new opportunities. The half-hourly data from MHHS will enable businesses to closely monitor energy consumption patterns, identify inefficiencies, and optimise their usage – ultimately helping them to lower operational costs.
 
We encourage businesses to collaborate more closely with their energy suppliers and data management partners. This teamwork will ensure better communication and smoother transitions, helping you stay compliant while also refining your energy management strategies.

How can Amber help?

At Amber, we’re here to help you navigate the MHHS programme and take full advantage of the new opportunities it brings. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the transition smoothly. Please get in touch to find out how we can support you.