Smart Meter
A smart meter is an intelligent metering system that plays a central role in modern energy supply. It consists of two main components: a modern measuring device (mME), which is a digital electricity meter, and a smart meter gateway (SMGW), which acts as a communication unit for the secure transmission of consumption data.
From 1 January 2025, it will be mandatory for many households (and companies) in Germany to install a smart meter. Households with an annual electricity consumption of more than 6,000 kWh will be among the first users. Operators of photovoltaic systems or other EEG systems with a feed-in power of at least 7 kW are also obliged to use a smart metering system. In addition, all households that have a so-called ‘controllable consumption device’, i.e. a heat pump or a wallbox for electric cars, will be required to install the system. Customers will be informed in good time about the installation of a smart meter if they are affected.
Smart meters are usually installed by the responsible metering point operator, usually the local grid operator. Customers do not have to actively organise the installation, but are informed in good time. If the installation of a smart meter is required by law, there are no installation costs. Additional costs may be incurred if the meter cabinet needs to be extended or replaced. Ongoing operating costs are capped by law and depend on consumption and device type.
Smart meters are important because they enable more precise recording of energy consumption and thus create a basis for efficient energy management, e.g. when using dynamic electricity tariffs. Consumers can track their electricity consumption in more detail, identify peak load times and optimise their energy use as required. Grid operators, on the other hand, benefit from the automatically transmitted data as they can keep a better eye on and control the stability of the electricity grid. This eliminates the need for meter reading and the customer receives more accurate and timely information on consumption.
Smart meters are an indispensable component of the digitalisation of the energy industry and make a significant contribution to the integration of renewable energies into the electricity grid.
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