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MHHS: What It Means For Organisations In 2025

The UK electricity market is set for a major transformation in 2025 with the start of the transfer to Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS). This regulatory shift, driven by Ofgem, will change the way electricity consumption is recorded and billed. Every electricity meter, regardless of type, will eventually function as a half-hourly meter, meaning energy usage will be recorded and settled every 30 minutes. But what does this mean for businesses, and how can you prepare for these changes?

What is Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS)? 

MHHS is a new approach to energy billing where all eligible electricity meters in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) will start to record and be billed to their usage on a half-hourly basis. This replaces the current system, where Non-Half Hourly supplies rely on estimated usage patterns to calculate charges. 


Key benefits of MHHS for businesses 


MHHS brings several advantages for businesses of all sizes: 


  • The opportunity for more accurate charging with real-time energy consumption data, meaning businesses can be billed based on actual usage rather than estimates, reducing costs if using energy out of peak times. 
  • Reduced system costs in time. With a greater exposure to actual costs, it is forecast that more users will reduce their usage during peak times meaning that overall system costs will be lower as less generation and backup will be needed at this time. 
  • Lower costs through demand response. Businesses can use their energy data to shift consumption away from peak periods when electricity prices are higher, leading to cost savings. 
  • A more dynamic electricity market makes better use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, with more opportunities for businesses to use and generate renewable electricity. 

Who will be affected by the changes? 


This change applies to all electricity consumers in Great Britain with a Non-Half Hourly meter, including businesses, organisations, and households. Whether you operate a small retail outlet or a large industrial facility, MHHS will impact how your electricity usage is measured and billed. 


The MHHS programme is set to start transferring supplies in late October 2026 and will be fully implemented by May 2027. Businesses should start preparing now by reviewing their procurement strategy, checking if their meters are compatible, and exploring ways to optimise energy usage based on half-hourly data. 




How can organisations prepare? 


  1. Talk with us to understand how these changes will affect your billing structure and review your current energy contract. 
  2. Check if your meters are compatible with half-hourly data collection and that your metering infrastructure is fit for purpose. 
  3. Consider developing a strategy that takes advantage of load shifting and demand-side flexibility. 
  4. Stay informed about updates by subscribing to our newsletter for market updates. 


The shift to Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement marks a significant step towards a smarter and more efficient energy system in the UK. It is key to the government’s plans for Clean Power and eventually, Net Zero. While the transition may require some adjustments, businesses that proactively adapt to these changes can benefit from cost savings and enhanced sustainability efforts. 


Optimised can help businesses navigate this transition, providing expert insights and tailored strategies to make the most of MHHS. Get in touch with us to learn how you can turn these regulatory changes into an opportunity for greater efficiency and cost savings. 


For more insights on energy market changes and optimisation strategies, follow our blog or contact our team today. 


Imy Allibhai - Sustainability Consultant

Article by Giles McNaught

Senior Bureau Analyst, Utility Bureau Team

Giles is a specialist in UK energy policy and regulation, with a strong focus on Market-Wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) and its impact on suppliers and end-users. He has extensive experience translating complex industry changes into actionable insights, helping businesses adapt to regulatory shifts and Net Zero targets.


At Optimised, as a Senior Bureau Analyst plays, Giles plays a key role in ensuring clients stay ahead of evolving policies, leveraging his expertise in compliance, digitalisation, and stakeholder engagement to drive meaningful change in the energy sector.

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