Smart metering: measuring and increasing efficiency in real-time

Smart electricity meters are an important innovation in energy management. Compared to traditional meters, they offer more reliable and modern readings, with real-time suggestions and greater accuracy. 
 

Thanks to their interconnection with standard home automation communication protocols, users can access detailed consumption models. These models enable more efficient management of energy thanks to informed and strategic decision-making, and can be consulted through an app or control panel.
 

This immediacy and completeness of information allows users to be better informed about their consumption, encouraging a more rational and conscientious use of resources. There are also benefits for grid managers, who can identify faults, malfunctions and potential efficiency improvements. 

Smart electricity meters can be integrated into modular systems, where protection, control, programming and signalling can be combined to create sophisticated electrical installations with the highest standards of safety.

The advanced functions of smart meters, such as the ability to view electricity consumption in real-time, are accessible via the smart home monitoring system itself, thanks to standardised interconnections. 
 

The data is available on a 15-minute, daily or monthly basis, so all the necessary point measurements and estimates can be carried out for a more efficient use of energy. The meters are usually supplied with a push button to display:
 

• current reading

• customer code

• consumption in the F1, F2 and F3 time bands

• maximum power recorded by the meter

• instantaneous power absorbed and delivered in kW

• energy absorbed and delivered in kWh
   

Wired or wireless connection then enables the transmission of data to the app and domestic series, where, in addition to the data mentioned above, the user can monitor in-depth information such as the absorption (more or less regular) of individual household appliances. 

For added safety, smart meters are also able to send notifications in the event of unusual consumption, which could be a symptom of a system malfunction or defects in the powered devices.

Measuring electric consumption through smart metering is one of the central elements of European policy linked to energy sustainability and the promotion of a more efficient and competitive supply market.
 

The first European directive was the 2009/72/EC – adopted in Italy by Decree 93/2011 – that asked member states to conduct a cost/benefits analysis on a large-scale introduction of smart meters. If positive, the Directive set an installation target of at least 80% smart meters by 2020. 
 

One of the most significant benefits that emerged from the analyses – and that triggered the transition – was the energy savings driven by the increase in user awareness concerning their consumption habits. 
 

Having continual access to information proved to be a decisive factor in changing habits and decision-making with regard to electricity, as well as raising awareness about the various actions that contribute to energy savings.
 

European Directive 2012/27/EU was later introduced on the matter of energy efficiency – adopted into Italian law by Legislative Decree 102/2014 – with a new definition of “smart metering system” that places greater emphasis on the importance of timely access to information on energy consumption for the user.
 

This legislative decree led to the launch of the consultation and definition process of the general provisions, of specific metering functions, and the performance of second generation smart metering systems.
 

Finally, it is important to remember that Resolution 646/2016 introduced a fast-track for the evaluation and approval of 2G meter installation plans, eliminating the requirement to conduct the costs/benefits analysis.
 

The website of the Regulatory Authority for Energy Networks and the Environment provides a complete overview of all general provisions and regulations for each application case.