Czech gas distributor GasNet's app has logged 550,000 self-reported meter readings in 10 years, helping customers track gas use and switch energy suppliers

The Mobile Self-Readings app, which the Czech Republic’s largest gas distributor GasNet offers households and small businesses for submitting their own consumption readings, has recorded a total of 550,000 reported readings over its 10 years of operation. It currently has approximately 200,000 registered users, and according to the distributor’s data, an average of around 11,000 people log in each month. Since the start of this year alone, customers have submitted more than 13,000 readings through the app. Customers most often use it when transferring an energy account or to regularly check their own gas consumption.

The app is intended for household and small-business customers in GasNet’s distribution area, which covers the entire Czech Republic except Prague and the South Bohemian Region. Customers in this distribution area can use the app regardless of their gas supplier. Registered users can view previously submitted readings, allowing them to track their consumption history. However, readings can also be submitted without registering.

Readings without registration boosted app usage

GasNet added the option to submit a meter reading without registering three years ago, in response to user feedback. This step helped further increase the app’s use and improve user satisfaction.

According to GasNet, approximately 21,000 registered customers use the app more than once a year. GasNet recorded its highest-ever interest in self-reported readings during the COVID-19 pandemic and after the collapse of Bohemia Energy, when approximately 110,000 readings were submitted through the app in a single year.

„The Mobile Self-Readings app is an important tool for us, making it easier for customers to report their gas meter reading, especially in situations where it is important to have an up-to-date reading. People most often use it when switching suppliers, helping to reduce complaints related to meter readings,“ says Stanislav Mertlík, GasNet’s director of capacity sales.

The app automatically checks and confirms readings

After submitting a reading, the user immediately receives confirmation that it has been received by email or SMS. The system then checks the reading using automated validation procedures, and confirmation is usually sent to the customer by the next day. When submitting a reading, users must attach a photo of the gas meter display showing the current reading and the device’s serial number.

„The app does not replace the services of a gas supplier. It is a simple channel for reporting self-readings and also helps prevent misunderstandings in situations where it is important to have an accurate meter reading,“ Mertlík concludes.

Readings can easily be submitted through the Gas Consumption Self-Reading mobile app (available on Google Play) or on the website mobilnisamoodecty.cz.