What is a plug-in bridge device for your smart meter?

Alt HAN stands for Alternative Home Area Network. It’s used in homes where the standard smart meter signal (HAN) doesn’t reach far enough, usually because of the layout or size of the house.

Some customers can’t enjoy the full range of smart meter benefits, because they live in a house where their home area network – which is made up of a gas meter, an electricity meter, communications hub and IHD – are too far apart to connect with each other. Alt HAN communication solutions are designed to "bridge this gap".

Alt HAN Co. is a group set up by UK energy suppliers to design and provide this solution. If your home needs it, your energy supplier will contact you to arrange an installation. Alt HAN Co. is a group funded by energy suppliers, created specifically to design and manufacture range-extending “alternative home area network” solutions, capable of connecting the devices required for users to enjoy the full smart metering experience.

Usually, two bridge devices are installed - one near the electricity meter and one plugged into a socket inside your home. Sometimes a third device is added near the gas meter. These are plug-through devices, so you won’t lose access to the socket.

The plug-in device (also known as a bridge or plug-through device) is part of the Alt HAN solution. It extends the signal between your smart meter equipment, helping everything stay connected. It plugs into a standard socket and must stay plugged in to keep your smart meters working properly.

No. Alt HAN devices must be plugged directly into a wall socket. Avoid using extension leads or plugging them into devices that block signals or have surge protection, as this can interfere with performance.

Most installations use one plug-in device, either Bridge 2 or Bridge 3.

In some cases, an extra bridge may be needed.

Visit the Alt HAN Co. website or their Alt Han Co. frequently asked questions page. For specific questions, please contact us through our ScottishPower webchat. For details on how we use your data in relation to Alt HAN devices, please see our Privacy Notice.