Building compliant and reliable IoT-based smart metering ...

Building reliable and resilient IoT-based smart metering systems is essential to minimize maintenance costs and contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of our critical infrastructure.

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Smart meters enhance efficiency in essential systems and must be able to withstand environmental and operational challenges throughout their lifecycle. But regulatory and compliance requirements at both international and local levels add to the technical challenges of designing IoT-based smart metering systems.

Designing for reliability requires careful attention to hardware and software design, component selection, and testing and compliance processes. If you&#;re a technical manager, an engineer, or a systems designer we included some practical considerations in this guide.

What are smart meters?

Smart meters are electronic devices that allow for a more efficient and reliable way to monitor critical infrastructure with the support of advanced features such as leak detection mechanisms, time-of-use pricing, demand management programs, detection of unauthorized use, and even encourage conservation.

Smart metering offers a wide range of benefits for both utilities and consumers, including:

• Improved billing accuracy and efficiency
• Reduced operational costs through remote meter reading and management
• Enhanced energy efficiency and demand management
• Better outage detection and response
• More granular and timely consumption data for informed decision-making
• Enablement of new pricing models and demand response programs

The energy and utility industries are poised to undergo transformation as data and IoT are integrated into smart metering systems, as detailed here.

How smart meters work

Smart meters are stationary IoT devices that incorporate digital technology to allow for timely transmission of consumption data to utility providers and enable remote meter management and billing.

Unlike traditional meters that require manual readings, smart meters are equipped with sophisticated two-way communication systems. These systems not only facilitate efficient data transmission but also allow the meters to receive firmware updates and operational commands, enhancing their functionality and responsiveness to utility needs.

What is AMI?

Modern smart metering systems rely on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) in contrast with AMR or Automatic Meter Reading.

AMI is an integrated system of smart meters, communication networks, and data management systems that enable two-way communication between utilities and customers.

Both AMI and AMR eliminate the need for manual reading but AMR only facilitates one-way communication, limiting its capabilities.

AMI systems typically include:

• Smart meters installed at customer premises
• Connectivity that enable data transmission between meters and utilities
• Head-end systems that manage meter data and enable remote meter management
• Meter Data Management Systems (MDMS) that store, analyze, and process meter data

Designing secure and reliable smart metering systems necessitates dealing with layers of logistics and technical complexities. Setting aside the hardware requirements, incorporating robust security protocols, maintaining trust and regulatory compliance within the evolving smart metering infrastructure, are some of the most common rollout challenges in smart metering.

Key considerations for smart meter design

Designing smart metering systems is a tough balancing act with many considerations beyond building the device. One important guideline is to set reliability goals from the beginning as it can have far-reaching implications for the system&#;s performance, scalability, and resilience.

The initial design stage sets precedence to the system lifetime of smart meters. At this stage, choosing components that balance cost, performance, and durability is critical for device manufacture. This comprises a comprehensive approach to minimizing the complete Bill of Materials (BoM), which encompasses both physical components and communication protocols, including connectivity.

But whether you&#;re in the process of finding hardware components or reliable solution partners, these principles should be incorporated early in the design process to avoid costly mistakes and ensure that smart metering systems are built on a solid foundation.

Here&#;s a general guideline to implementing reliable and resilient smart metering systems:

• Consider real-world environments (will the device be underground, in a remote location, or is accessibility more important)
• Adhere to industry and regulatory standards for data formats, communication protocols, security, and overall device requirements
• Design for interoperability and backward compatibility
• Incorporate security features from the ground up
• Plan for scalability and future growth

Building IoT-based smart metering systems

A compound annual growth rate of 11% is expected for smart meters, according to Gartner, where each type of smart meter has its own unique requirements in terms of accuracy, durability, and communication protocols. Some unique requirements when designing smart meters could be:

• Electricity meters: More frequent data collection (15-minute to hourly intervals).
• Gas meters: Adequately sealed and durable against environmental conditions, and can reliably maintain reading accuracy over the entire range of its operating parameters.
• Water meters: Can withstand harsh outdoor conditions and operate reliably for long periods without maintenance.

Keep in mind these six aspects of building a robust smart metering system to balance current goals, budgets, and timelines, with a system that is designed to last for 5 to 10 years under difficult environments and varying compliance requirements.

1. Hardware

Similar to other IoT devices, smart meters typically include the following hardware components:

• Various sensors: to measure consumption, vibrations, temperature, etc.
• Power source: Some smart meters may be required a direct power source, but batteries are usually required for backup power and remote operations
• Data management: Microprocessors and memory to process and manage data and configurations settings
• Communication modules for transmitting data: Depending on the system architecture, smart meters integrate a combination of communication technologies such as cellular connectivity (e.g. NB-IoT or LTE-M), power line communication (PLC), or radio frequency (RF) mesh
• Displays: Unlike other IoT device builds, smart meters usually require displays for showing consumption data and other information. It has to be secure and tamper-proof.

2. Software

It is also worth noting that smart meters&#; general functionality should be improved through firmware and software. It is vital to design software that is modular, scalable, and easily updated. Ensure that a secure over-the-air (OTA) management is possible.

3. Standards and regulations

Regulations and certifications ensure that devices meet performance, safety, and interoperability requirements before they are deployed in the field. However, it can be easy to get lost with the many standards across the industry at both national and international levels.

Components and implementation must be certified for accuracy, performance, reliability, security, safety, and interoperability that are highly dependent on regional requirements. There are also some variations on smart meter requirements for energy, gas, or water. Some examples of certifications and regulations are:

• Critical Entities Resilience Directive (CER)
• Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA)
• EU regulations on smart grids and meters
• IEEE - &#; Standard for Intelligent Electronic Devices Cyber Security Capabilities
• IEC and : These international standards specify requirements for the construction, testing, and performance of electricity metering equipment.

&#; One strategy to navigate compliance requirements is to seek out reliable partners who manage certifications at various levels. Compliance experts can save you time and costly mistakes.

4. Connectivity

Connectivity tethers on-site smart meters to the utility station. And when talking about smart meters capability to deliver timely meter data, it would not be possible without connectivity. So not only should it have reliable coverage, connectivity can also work to improve operational excellence with various network services.

Quality of coverage

Because they are often installed in obscure locations, the coverage quality has to be reliable. While there are some ways to improve signal integrity, connectivity must still be secure, and downtime should be reduced. The ideal connectivity option should enable transmission of data for continuity of service.

&#; Onomondo gives you access to 650+ RANs worldwide and increased uptime and coverage on 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE-M, or NB-IoT. Read more about our connectivity solution for smart meters.

Minimizes compliance risks

A simplified connectivity solution can help meet the numerous regulatory criteria required to deploy smart metering systems. For example, Onomondo&#;s global network uses a single APN, meaning there won&#;t be complicated connectivity setup for devices for each and every location. Additionally, you own the full rights to IMSI, Ki, and OPC keys, which helps with interoperability.

Streamlines remote management and diagnostics

When issues arise, the ability to debug and troubleshoot remotely means there&#;s less need to send down a maintenance officer to check what the cause is. Having access to debugging tools to gain access to network, traffic, and signaling logs provides immediate insights into what is happening with your smart meter connectivity. As an example, you can see if the device is online, and if not, when was it last online and if there are other devices that are having issues.

Supports device lifespan

Smart meters need to be able to adapt to future adjustments to improve its lifespan. Connectivity contracts usually last around 5 years and if there are any changes that need to happen on or before that time, our freedom to leave solution allows you to transfer operators as needed throughout the device&#;s lifespan. This makes it convenient for smart metering to prioritize their connectivity needs, as opposed to having to visit each and every single smart metering device to replace SIMs.

&#; SoftSIM is a software-only SIM that requires no physical SIM chips to establish network connectivity onto the device. This means remote management is easier and easier on the device battery consumption. Learn more about SoftSIM here.

5. Data integrity

Smarts meters make accurate data more reliable for both customers and utility companies. To ensure billing accuracy, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency, some strategies that enhance data integrity and availability, include:

• Implement data validation techniques that check for errors, anomalies, and inconsistencies in meter data
• Secure communication protocols to protect meter data from unauthorized access or tampering.
• Design redundancy, backup, and disaster recovery capabilities in the event of a failure.
• Have data governance policies and procedures in place that define roles and processes for managing and securing meter data throughout its lifecycle.

6. Security

Security issues include data privacy and integrating legacy systems, as well as external threats like physical tampering and malware. In fact, security is one of the top concerns for many utility operators.

Ensuring end-to-end security requires a comprehensive approach that addresses security at every layer of the system, from the physical meter to the back-end IT infrastructure and even securing connectivity.

Common strategies in securing IoT-based smart metering systems include:

• Development practices, such as code review, testing, and vulnerability scanning will help identify and remediate security weaknesses in meter firmware
• Encryption and authentication protocols
• Key management and access control
• Monitoring
• Incidence response

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Designing IoT-based smart metering systems for reliability and resilience

Overall, smart meters introduce opportunities for efficiency. It is estimated that smart meters create up to 2-10% energy savings, and an average savings of &#;230 for gas and &#;270 for electricity per metering point (divided among consumers, suppliers, distribution system operators, and so on), according to a study done by the EU.

Building IoT-based smart metering systems for utilities like gas, water, and power offer accessible tools for reliable measurements that limit fraud, help detect leakages, and prevent outages &#; all of which are beneficial to bottomline goals that satisfy customers and operational excellence that can also have an impact on sustainable targets.

Ensuring the longevity and performance of smart meters over their lifespan is critical for achieving a positive ROI and minimizing maintenance costs. By implementing the strategies and best practices early on in the design stages and throughout the device lifespan, it will be more manageable to create smart metering systems that are built to last longer and deliver value for years to come.

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Resources

European Commission, Directorate-General for Energy, Alaton, C., Tounquet, F. (). Benchmarking smart metering deployment in the EU-28 : final report, Publications Office. https://data.europa.eu/doi/10./

IoT smart meters combine conventional energy meters with the IoT (Internet of Things) technology for real-time data collection and transmission. It has applications in various sectors, such as energy management, grid monitoring, and smart homes. Smart Meter IoT enables manufacturers to create interconnected systems that collect, analyze, and exchange real-time data.

This article explores IoT smart meters&#; significance, architecture, components, and applications. It also recommends suitable communication protocols and IoT gateways to implement intelligent metering systems.

What is Smart Meter IoT?

Smart meter IoT refers to integrating smart meter technology with Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities. The smart meters have sensors, communication modules, and data processing capabilities. Smart meters with IoT capabilities can communicate with other IoT-enabled devices, such as private home automation or energy management systems, to provide real-time data and enable control or automation functionalities.

The integration of IoT capabilities into smart meters brings numerous benefits. It enables remote monitoring and control of smart meters, allowing for real-time data analysis, predictive maintenance, and improved operational efficiency. Smart meter IoT systems also facilitate the collection of valuable insights and analytics on energy consumption patterns, enabling better energy management and conservation.

Components and Architecture of Smart Meter IoT

Smart meter IoT systems have various components that enable seamless data collection, transmission, and analysis. The architecture of a typical smart meter IoT system involves the following elements:

IoT Gateway

The IoT gateway is the central hub or bridge between the smart meters and the broad IoT network. It acts as a communication gateway that enables data transmission between smart meters and the cloud or other connected devices. The IoT gateway collects data from the smart meters and facilitates its transfer to the cloud or local server for further processing and analysis. It is crucial in ensuring seamless connectivity, data security, and interoperability between the smart meters and the IoT ecosystem.

You may be interested in Revolutionary Smart Metering Gateway Changes Lives in Smart Apartment

Smart Meters

Smart meters are advanced measurement devices that replace traditional utility meters. Smart meters have several sensors and communication capabilities that enable them to measure and monitor parameters such as energy consumption, water usage, or other relevant data points. 

How Do Components of IoT Smart Meters Work Together?

Here&#;s how smart meters and the IoT gateway work and interact to enable seamless data collection, transmission, and analysis

Data Collection: Smart meters continuously collect data on the measured parameters, such as energy consumption, at regular intervals. The data is typically stored locally within the smart meter.

Data Transmission: IoT smart meters use communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or other wireless technologies to transmit the collected data to the IoT gateway. The IoT gateway bridges the smart meters and the IoT network, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission.

Data Processing and Analysis: Once the data reaches the IoT gateway, it is processed and analyzed. The gateway may perform initial data filtering or aggregation tasks to reduce the data volume before transmitting it to the cloud or local server for further analysis. Data analytics algorithms and software can then be applied to gain insights from the collected data, such as energy consumption patterns or anomalies.

Integration with IoT Ecosystem: The IoT gateway facilitates the integration of the smart meter data with other IoT-enabled devices or systems within the broader IoT ecosystem. This integration allows for enhanced functionalities and interoperability. For example, home automation systems can use smart meter data to optimize energy usage or energy management platforms to provide real-time energy insights to users.

Applications of Smart Meter IoT

Smart meters&#; interconnectedness and data exchange capabilities within the IoT ecosystem offer immense potential for optimizing resource usage, enhancing operational efficiency, and creating more sustainable and intelligent systems across various industries. Here are some key areas where smart meter IoT is being utilized:

Energy Management

Smart meters enable users to monitor and optimize their energy usage patterns. It also facilitates demand response programs, where energy providers can dynamically adjust energy supply based on real-time data, optimizing energy distribution and reducing peak load.

Power Distribution and Grid Management

In the utility sector, smart meter IoT technology helps power service providers monitor and manage energy distribution networks more effectively. They can remotely monitor energy usage, detect power outages, and manage load balancing by integrating intelligent meters into the grid. Smart meter IoT provides real-time data on power quality, grid stability, and equipment performance, allowing for better grid management, improved fault detection, and more efficient maintenance and repairs.

Building Automation and Smart Homes

Smart meter IoT enables the user to monitor and control energy consumption, optimize HVAC systems, and manage appliance usage remotely. Smart meter data can generate real-time energy usage insights, enabling homeowners to make informed decisions and reduce energy waste for smart apartment.

Industrial Monitoring and Control

In industrial settings, smart meter IoT technology enables efficient monitoring and control of energy usage and production processes. By integrating smart meters into manufacturing equipment and machinery, manufacturers can collect real-time data on energy consumption, production output, and equipment performance for predictive maintenance and process optimization.

Communication Interfaces for Smart Meter IoT

Smart meter IoT systems employ various communication interfaces to facilitate data exchange between smart meters and other components within the IoT ecosystem. Here are some commonly used communication interfaces in smart meter IoT:

Wireless Communication

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-wave, and Zigbee, are commonly used wireless interfaces in smart meter IoT systems.

Cellular Networks

Cellular networks, including 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, and upcoming 5G, offer wide-area coverage and reliable connectivity for smart meter IoT deployments. 

Ethernet

Ethernet interfaces enable high-speed and reliable communication between smart meters and local networks. Ethernet connections are typically used in industrial and commercial settings where fast and secure data transfer is required. 

Choice of Communication Interfaces

Evaluating the specific requirements and constraints of the use case will help determine the most appropriate communication interface for the IoT smart meter deployment. Some use cases with recommended communication interfaces are given below.

Residential Energy Monitoring: A residential energy monitoring system must communicate with the homeowner&#;s devices and the utility company&#;s infrastructure. Here Wi-Fi is the most suitable choice for seamless connectivity with the homeowner&#;s devices, such as smartphones or tablets, enabling real-time energy monitoring and control. 

Industrial Grid Monitoring: A robust and long-range communication interface like Zigbee or Z-Wave is suitable for large-scale grid monitoring applications with numerous smart meters deployed across an industrial area. These protocols provide low-power, mesh networking capabilities, allowing reliable communication between multiple smart meters and a central monitoring system.

Smart City Infrastructure: A versatile communication interface is needed to support different applications in a smart city, where various IoT devices and systems are interconnected. Cellular networks, such as LTE or 5G, offer broad coverage and high-speed data transmission. Their support for large-scale deployments makes them ideal for connecting smart meters to the city&#;s infrastructure and enabling remote monitoring and management.

SoC Technology in Smart Meter IoT

SoC (System-on-a-Chip) technology is essential for developing smart meter IoT systems. It enables the integration of multiple electronic components onto a single chip, resulting in compact designs and efficient operations. SoC devices offer processing power, energy efficiency, built-in communication capabilities, security features, and scalability.

They empower equipment manufacturers to create advanced smart meters that collect and analyze real-time data, optimize resource management, improve efficiency, and provide value-added services. SoC technology is crucial for the success and effectiveness of smart meter IoT solutions in various industries.

Dusun Application for Smart Meter IoT

The Dusun DSGW-021 IoT gateway is suitable for IoT smart meters. Here are some reasons for recommending this gateway:

Multiple Protocol Support: The gateway supports numerous communication interfaces such as BLE 5.2, Zigbee 3.0, Z-Wave, Matter, and Sub-G. 

High-Speed Data Transfer: With up to 150 Mbps download speeds, the gateway can handle large amounts of data generated by IoT smart meters. 

Stable and Efficient Connections: The gateway features two detachable LTE antennas, providing stable and efficient connections to every device. 

Support for Multiple Devices: The gateway can share internet access with up to 64 Wi-Fi devices simultaneously. This scalability allows for integrating multiple IoT smart meters within a network.

Battery backup: It has a backup Li battery that lasts 12 hours. This ensures that data collection and transmission remain uninterrupted, enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of the smart metering system.

Smart Meter IoT FAQs

How the integration of IoT with smart meters can be beneficial for energy meter manufacturers?

Integrating IoT with smart meters enables energy meter manufacturers to offer enhanced product functionality by incorporating advanced features such as real-time data monitoring, remote control, and automated billing. Additionally, IoT-enabled smart meters enable better grid management by providing real-time data on energy consumption patterns and load balancing. IoT integration empowers energy meter manufacturers to deliver advanced, intelligent, and sustainable energy management solutions to their customers.

Is it possible to convert traditional energy meters into smart meters?

It is possible to convert a traditional energy meter into a smart one. The process typically involves retrofitting the existing meter with additional components and technologies that enable it to collect and transmit data in real time. However, the feasibility and complexity of the conversion may vary depending on the specific meter model and its compatibility with smart metering technologies.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit iot energy meter.