smartmetering

Smart metering refers to digital meters and related information and communications technologies used to measure and manage energy consumption. As a core component of advanced metering infrastructure, smart metering enables two-way data exchange between utilities and customers and supports near real-time usage reporting.

A typical smart metering system comprises the meter itself, a communications network, meter data management, and customer interfaces (online portals or apps). Some implementations also connect to home area networks and allow coordination with distributed generation, such as solar photovoltaic systems.

Functions include automatic meter reading, time-stamped usage data, remote service actions (connect/disconnect), outage detection, and support for pricing schemes like time-of-use and demand response. Data streams facilitate billing accuracy and real-time energy management for consumers and operators.

Benefits include improved bill accuracy, enhanced load management, better outage detection and restoration, and greater integration of renewables and electric vehicles. For utilities, smart metering supports grid efficiency and planning; for customers, it enables more informed energy decisions.

Deployment varies by region and policy. Common standards include IEC 62056 (DLMS/COSEM), ANSI C12, and IEC 61968/61969. Communications technologies range from M-Bus and Zigbee to cellular and Wi-SUN, with privacy and cybersecurity considerations underpinning rollout strategies.

Privacy and security focus on data protection, access controls, encryption, and consent. Challenges include initial costs, interoperability, data management, and ensuring equitable access. Regulators often address data minimization, retention periods, and user control to mitigate privacy risks.