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Implementing midata in the energy sector

The government is seeking responses to inform draft regulations to implement Midata in the energy sector as soon as possible.

Midata is a method of electronically transferring customers’ data (with their consent), from a company system to a Third Party Intermediary (TPI) using an Application Programming Interface (API).

For an energy consumer, this means that they can use an application (app) or website developed by a TPI to compare energy tariffs using the actual usage/account details held by their current supplier. Midata makes comparing tariffs quicker and easier and enables more accurate comparisons. Midata also allows energy suppliers to develop customer acquisition tools, including apps, so customers can switch to a supplier without a TPI.

The Government took powers in the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 that would allow it to mandate third party electronic access to customers’ data in regulated sectors, including energy. The Government has developed a draft technical specification with the energy sector. There are, however, a number of practical implementation issues to consider in taking this forward. These include: 

  • how to derive maximise benefit for consumers; 
  • how to ensure the quality of customer data suppliers provide; 
  • who can access the data, and; 
  • what safeguards should be in place to protect customers’ data from misuse.

BEIS is seeking responses on these questions from domestic energy customers, customer organisations, energy supply companies, third party intermediaries, such as price comparison sites and organisations with expertise in data protection as well as other interested parties.

In addition BEIS is seeking energy suppliers’ views on the cost of making the necessary changes and the length of time it would take them to implement the requirements.

Responses to this call for evidence will be used to inform draft regulations. 

14 Dec 2016 - Consultation opens

10 Feb 2017 - Consultation closes

27 Jul 2018 - Government response published

Policy milestone details


Start date: 2016-12-14

Keywords: Energy consumption - Data management - energy markets

Countries: UK -

Milestone source: The call for evidence

Milestone type: Consultation/call for evidence

Sector: Energy demand and use - Innovation and smart systems -

Organisation: Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy

Subjects: Energy consumption, Energy policy, Energy prices, Electricity prices, Gas prices

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