Half-hourly settlement (HHS) is changing the way electricity is tracked and managed across the UK. It sounds technical, but the benefits are easy to understand: smarter charging, more flexible energy tariffs, and a grid that's better prepared for the rise of electric vehicles. Here's everything you need to know.
What is half-hourly settlement?
Think of half-hourly settlement as a more accurate way of tracking your energy use. Rather than working from estimates, your smart meter records how much electricity you use every 30 minutes.
This creates a detailed view of your energy usage throughout the day, helping build a smarter and fairer energy system.
Why does it matter for Cord Rewards?
With Cord Rewards, you can earn rewards for charging your EV when electricity is cheaper and greener, typically overnight. To make sure you're rewarded fairly, we need to know exactly when your charging took place.
That's where half-hourly settlement comes in. It allows your energy usage to be tracked in 30-minute intervals, making it possible to identify eligible charging sessions and calculate your rewards accurately.
Important: you need to be half-hourly settled to earn rewards. Without it, there is no way to measure your charging, so no reward can be paid.
What is the UK doing about half-hourly settlement?
The UK is rolling out half-hourly settlement nationwide as part of its transition to a smarter, more flexible energy system. By 2027, homes with smart meters are expected to be moved onto half-hourly settlement, allowing energy usage to be measured more accurately throughout the day. The rollout is happening in stages, so some people are already set up whilst others aren't yet.
Note: you might already be half-hourly settled without realising it. If you're not sure, just ask your energy supplier. The next section shows you how.
If you're not already on half-hourly settlement, don't worry. Many energy suppliers can switch you over quickly and, in most cases, it's completely free. Switching does not impact your existing energy tariff.
Three simple ways to get started
- Check your energy app or online accountLook for settings related to your smart meter, energy data, or meter readings, and choose the half-hourly option.
- Contact your energy supplierGive them a quick call and ask if your electricity account is set up for half-hourly settlement.
- Send them a messageA short email or online chat request is often all it takes.
Whichever way you choose to contact them, you're asking for your reading to be taken every 30 minutes from your smart meter.
Still need help?
Our UK-based support team will be happy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Contact customer support Discover Cord Rewards