Our history

The history of gas metering in the UK is closely tied to the development of the gas industry, which began in the early 19th century. Here's a timeline of key developments in gas metering in the UK:

Early 1800s – The birth of the gas industry

1807: Gas lighting was first used in London by Frederick Albert Winsor to illuminate Pall Mall.

1812: The Gas Light and Coke Company (GLCC) was established, the world's first gas utility company.

Initially, gas was sold without meters—consumers were charged based on estimates or flat rates.

1820s–1840s – Introduction of gas meters

1820: The first domestic gas meter was invented by Samuel Clegg, a former assistant to William Murdoch.

Early meters were wet meters, using a rotating drum in water to measure volume. These devices made it possible to charge customers based on actual consumption, encouraging fairer billing and more efficient gas use.

Mid to Late 1800s – Standardisation and expansion

As gas lighting spread to homes and streetlights, the use of meters became more widespread. Improvements were made to the accuracy and durability of meters. Gas companies and local councils regulated metering practices to ensure consistency and prevent fraud.

Early 1900s – Regulation and domestic use

The growing use of gas for cooking and heating (not just lighting) led to increased demand for accurate meters. The Weights and Measures Act 1897 and subsequent legislation began to formally regulate gas meters, requiring certification and testing. 

1949 – Nationalisation of gas industry

The Gas Act 1948 led to the nationalisation of gas under the British Gas Corporation, bringing a unified structure to metering, distribution, and safety standards.

1986 – Privatisation of British Gas

Under the Gas Act 1986, British Gas was privatised. This led to competition in gas supply and an increased focus on metering for billing accuracy and customer choice. Gas metering began to evolve with the introduction of prepayment meters, offering consumers more control.

1999 – The start of our journey

In February 1999, National Gas Metering was incorporated under the name BG Metering Services (Wales) Limited. This company then evolved into Transco Metering Services before becoming National Grid Metering in 2005. 

In April 2023, following the sale of National Grid's Gas Transmission and Metering business, we were rebranded and adopted our current name, National Gas Metering which leads us to our position today as one of the largest Meter Asset Management companies in the United Kingdom.