Code change to ensure that only working smart meters are classified as smart

(by Karma Loveday)

Ofwat has approved, and will implement on 16 December, a “clear, robust, and future-proof definition for smart AMI meters”.

In its decision document on code change proposal CPW163, Ofwat explained the current definition is vague, opening the way for meters that require visual reads to be included. Specifically, this relates to smart AMI meters that are installed but not yet connected to the communication network, and smart AMI meters where equipment failures mean accurate reads are not being transmitted. MOSL data suggests 800 of the 126,000 meters listed as smart currently fall into this camp, but that with the smart meter rollout, the number could rise to 7,000 by 2030.

CPW163 proposed the following smart AMI definition: “A meter where consumption data is captured via a fixed transmitting infrastructure, which may use either private or public (e.g. cellular) communications networks, with planned data collection occurring at least hourly. To be classified as Smart AMI in the Central Systems, the meter and metering system must meet the following supplementary requirements: 

1. Deliver granular consumption data in accordance with the Granular Data Sharing Standard Specification, as published on the market operator's website, or subsequent Wholesale-Retail Code requirements; and 

2. Be fully commissioned and meet the minimum performance requirements defined by wholesalers under their smart metering policies.”