Working in partnership with our customer, Ecotricity, who are leading the way in deploying this innovative solution, we are proud to support the rollout of technology that will expand access to smart metering across Great Britain. 

 

What is Virtual WAN? 

 

Virtual WAN  is a new communications solution designed to enable smart meter installations in areas where traditional Wide Area Network (WAN) coverage does not exist. 

 

Instead of relying solely on external network coverage, VWAN uses the customer’s broadband to provide connectivity, supported by 4G where available. During installation, engineers connect via a VWAN-compatible device, which also acts as the customer’s in-home display. This provides the VWAN functionality, but also provides the consumer their smart usage data, so they are able to keep on top of their energy consumption. 

 

This flexible approach allows smart meters to be installed in locations that have historically been difficult to reach- such as rural properties and high-rise buildings - and forms part of a broader, evolving smart meter communications landscape, alongside solutions such as HAN extenders, Alt HAN and 4G communication hubs. 

 

Why VWAN matters 

 

Reliable connectivity is essential for smart meters to operate effectively. Without it, customers cannot benefit from accurate readings, real-time insights, or improved energy management. 

 

VWAN provides a solution for properties where connectivity has previously been a barrier. DESNZ have estimated that up to 300,000 properties could benefit from this technology, unlocking access to smart metering for customers who would otherwise be unable to receive it. 

 

By using the customer’s broadband, VWAN creates a new pathway for smart meter communication, helping to expand coverage across the UK and bring the benefits of smart energy to thousands more households. This ensures the right technology can be deployed for the right property, supporting a more inclusive, flexible, and data-driven energy system. 

 

Supporting industry innovation through Soft Launch

 

VWAN is currently being introduced through an industry-wide pilot, known as the Soft Launch, which began in February and is expected to cover around 1,000 installations in key “No WAN” areas. 

 

This phase allows the industry to test the technology in real-world conditions, ensuring it performs as expected and delivers a seamless installation experience. 

 

Calisen is proud to support Ecotricity in delivering some of the first successful VWAN installations in the industry, demonstrating our ability to deploy new and complex technologies efficiently and at scale, and the power of collaboration in driving innovation across the energy sector. 

 

Working closely with our partners, we ensure the most appropriate communications solution is selected for each property, helping to future-proof smart meter performance. 

 

On the ground: Delivering the first installations 

 

For our engineers, being part of the VWAN Soft Launch has been an exciting opportunity to work with new technology that could transform smart metering. 

 

George Brown, one of the first Calisen operatives to install VWAN, said: 

 

“It’s very exciting to be part of this pilot scheme testing new technology which uses customers’ WiFi to provide connectivity for smart meters in low signal areas, such as rural properties and flats. 

 

The first pilot trial went seamlessly, using the Virtual WAN device (which is also the consumer’s in-home display) as a bridge to connect the hub to the WiFi, in an area where connectivity would not be possible.   

 

This new technology should unlock smart meter access for a large number of customers who are currently without it, and further Calisen’s goals towards a more sustainable, smarter world for the next generation.” 

 

Looking ahead 

 

If the Soft Launch proves successful, a wider rollout of VWAN is expected to start later in 2026. 

 

This will enable smart meter connectivity for thousands more properties, helping consumers, suppliers, and networks benefit from a more connected, data-driven energy system. 

 

At Calisen, we are proud to be at the forefront of this journey - supporting the technologies and partnerships that will shape the future of energy.