MetersPublished 3 October 2026 · 4 min read
Smart electricity meters in 2026: when replacement is free and what an early swap costs
ESO has completed the first smart-meter rollout stage and the regulator VERT approved a fee for early replacement. What it means for homeowners — and what to check in your panel.
What has changed
At the end of 2025 ESO reported 1.3 million smart meters installed in Lithuania, completing the first rollout stage. Consumers may now request an earlier installation, and the operator must replace the meter within 4 months of the request.
On 30 April 2026 VERT approved a fee of EUR 19.10 excl. VAT (EUR 23.11 incl. VAT) for customers who want a swap before their current meter's metrological verification expires.
When the swap is free
According to ESO and VERT, no fee applies when the current meter's verification expires this year or has already expired, nor for vulnerable consumers. ESO also states that early replacement is free for customers who used more than 1,000 kWh in the last 12 months.
What to check before the swap
ESO replaces the meter, but the installation after it — the panel, circuit breakers and wiring — is the homeowner's responsibility. If your panel is old, has overheated terminals or lacks an RCD, this is a good moment to upgrade it.
A smart meter shows hourly consumption in the ESO self-service portal, which helps spot unusual loads that may point to a wiring or appliance fault.