Linky Smart Meter in France: Complete Guide 2026 – Installation, Features, and Consumer Rights
Everything you need to know about France's Linky smart meter: how it works, its benefits, how to track your consumption, your rights if you want to refuse it, and answers to the most common questions about this communicating meter.
Table of Contents
1. What is the Linky Smart Meter?
The Linky meter is a communicating (or "smart") electricity meter deployed by Enedis, the operator of the electricity distribution network in France. It progressively replaces older electromechanical meters (with the spinning wheel) and electronic meters.
This new-generation meter can automatically transmit consumption data to Enedis, without requiring a technician visit for meter reading. It also enables remote technical interventions, such as power changes or service activation.
Technical Specifications
- Color: Distinctive lime green
- Digital LCD display
- Communication via PLC (Power Line Communication)
- Automatic daily readings
- Expected lifespan: 20 years
2. Deployment in France
Linky meter deployment began in December 2015 after an experimental phase in 2010-2011. Enedis's goal was to equip 35 million French householdsby the end of 2021.
Key Deployment Figures (2026)
35M+
Meters installed
95%
Households equipped
€5B
Total investment
This modernization program is one of the largest industrial projects in Europe. It responds to a European directive requiring member states to deploy smart meters when economically justified.
3. How Does the Linky Meter Work?
The Linky meter uses PLC (Power Line Communication) technology to communicate. Consumption data is transmitted through the existing electrical network to a concentrator installed at the neighborhood transformer station.
The Transmission Process
Consumption Measurement
The meter records your electricity consumption in real-time
PLC Transmission
Data is sent via the electrical network (1-2 times per day)
Local Concentrator
A device at the transformer collects data from 200-500 meters
Enedis Central System
Data is transmitted via telephone network to Enedis's IT system
4. Benefits of the Linky Meter
For Consumers
✓ Billing Based on Actual Consumption
No more estimated bills: you pay exactly what you consume.
✓ Detailed Consumption Tracking
Access your consumption data day by day, hour by hour.
✓ Fast Remote Interventions
Power changes, service activation within 24h without technician.
✓ Quick Outage Detection
Enedis is automatically alerted when there's a network problem.
For the Electricity Grid
- Better management of consumption peaks
- Easier integration of renewable energy
- Reduced network losses
- Prevention of electricity fraud
5. Tracking Your Consumption with Linky
One of the main advantages of the Linky meter is the ability to track your consumption in detail. Several tools are available:
The Enedis Customer Portal
By creating an account on enedis.fr, you get free access to:
- Your daily consumption in kWh
- Half-hourly consumption (if you enable it)
- Comparisons with previous months/years
- Bill estimates
- Your meter reading history
💡 Practical Tip
Enable half-hourly data collection to precisely identify your consumption peaks and adjust your habits (running energy-intensive appliances during off-peak hours, etc.).
The Mobile App
The "Enedis à mes côtés" app is available on iOS and Android. It allows you to:
- Check your consumption in real-time
- Receive alerts for over-consumption
- Compare your consumption with similar households
- Access personalized energy-saving tips
6. Meter Installation
Installation Process
Linky meter installation is performed by a technician mandated by Enedis. Here are the steps:
1. Prior Notification
You receive a letter from Enedis 45 days and then 30 days before the intervention.
2. Installation Day
The technician performs the work (duration: about 30 minutes). A brief power cut is necessary.
3. Verification
The technician verifies proper operation and provides you with a certificate.
Important: Installation is Free
Linky meter installation should cost you nothing. If a technician asks you for money, it's likely a scam attempt. Contact Enedis at 0 800 054 659 (free call).
7. Can You Refuse the Linky Meter?
This is one of the most asked questions about the Linky meter. The answer is nuanced:
What the Law Says
The electricity meter belongs to the network operator (Enedis), not to the consumer or property owner. In theory, Enedis has the right to replace the meter.
However, no legal penalty is specified for people who refuse the Linky meter. You can therefore oppose the installation.
Consequences of Refusal
Short Term
- No immediate consequences
- Your old meter remains in place
- Manual readings by technician
From 2026 Onwards
- Manual reading fees (~€8.50/year)
- No access to consumption tracking
- Longer and more expensive interventions
How to Refuse
If you wish to refuse installation, send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to Enedis before the scheduled intervention date. Clearly state your opposition and request to keep your current meter.
8. Health and Electromagnetic Waves
The question of electromagnetic waves emitted by the Linky meter has raised many concerns. Here's what scientific authorities say:
ANSES Opinion (2017)
The French National Agency for Health & Safety concluded that:
- Electromagnetic field exposure levels are very low
- They are comparable to other household electrical equipment
- They are well below regulatory limits
Exposure Level Comparison (in V/m)
The Linky meter does not use Wi-Fi, contrary to popular belief. PLC (Power Line Communication) technology emits much weaker waves.
9. Data Privacy Protection
The collection of consumption data by the Linky meter is governed by CNIL and GDPR regulations. Here are the key points:
What Data is Collected?
- By default: daily consumption (daily index)
- Upon request: half-hourly consumption (with your explicit consent)
- Never: details about specific appliances used or lifestyle habits
Your Rights
- Right of access: you can request all data concerning you
- Right to object: you can refuse detailed (half-hourly) collection
- Right to deletion: data is kept for a maximum of 5 years
- Right to portability: you can retrieve your data
Enedis cannot transmit your consumption data to third parties without your explicit consent. You maintain control over your information.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Linky meter mandatory in France?
No, the Linky meter is not legally mandatory. You have the right to refuse installation. However, Enedis may charge additional fees for manual readings starting from 2026.
Is the Linky meter dangerous for health?
According to ANSES (French National Agency for Health & Safety), the electromagnetic waves emitted by the Linky meter are very low and present no health risk. The exposure level is well below regulatory thresholds.
How can I track my consumption with Linky?
You can track your consumption through the Enedis customer portal (enedis.fr), the Enedis mobile app, or your electricity supplier's customer area. Data is available on a daily basis.
Is Linky meter installation free?
Yes, Linky meter installation is completely free. Enedis covers all deployment costs as part of its public service mission. Be wary of anyone asking you for payment.
Can I change my power subscription with Linky?
Yes, with Linky, power changes can be made remotely within 24 hours without a technician visit. The first change is free, subsequent changes cost about €4.
Official Sources
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Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is provided for informational purposes and was verified at the update date. Linky meter conditions and features may change. Please consult the official Enedis website for the most current information. Comparatif24.fr is an independent information site and is not affiliated with Enedis.