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A person holding a smart meter

What are smart meters?

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What are smart or digital meters?

Smart power meters are an essential tool for promoting responsible consumption and maximizing energy efficiency in every household. 

These devices represent a key element in the energy transition, which aims to transform the sector towards a smarter and more sustainable model. The new power meters are integrated into smart grids, which are smart electricity grids that use digital technology to optimize electricity generation and its eventual distribution and consumption.

Smart power meters are devices that measure a household's electricity consumption. Unlike traditional analog power meters, it incorporates new communication features that lead to a more fluid interaction between consumers and energy suppliers.

These smart meters allow data to be collected, transmitted, and analyzed in a more efficient way. This information can be used to identify consumption patterns, detect problems in the power grid, and provide users with detailed reports on their energy consumption. Ultimately, digital power meters promote energy efficiency, savings, and the adoption of more sustainable habits.

Two smart power meters

What are smart power meters used for?

Smart meters offer multiple advantages to consumers. The main uses in the household are:

 
  1. Measurement: A digital power meter performs automatic and remote recording, so the user doesn't have to provide the monthly reading to the electric company.
  2. Control: Measurement is more accurate. With the new power meters, estimates are avoided, and possible billing errors are avoided. 
  3. Management: Users know exactly the kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed at any given time of the day. With this information, they can make better decisions regarding their consumption habits and use the least amount of energy resources.
  4. Cost: By knowing exactly how much electricity costs and the amount being consumed, individuals can choose the rate that best suits their needs to save even more on their electricity bill.
  5. Detection: A smart power meter can autonomously detect and report any issues. As a result, the electricity company can then take the appropriate measures to solve the problem quickly.
A person plugging in solar panel wires

Do you need to change your smart meter if you install solar panels?

Most smart meters are bi-directional, which means that they have the ability to measure and record both the energy consumed and the energy generated and returned to the grid. This means that usually there's no need to replace it. However, even if it's bi-directional, it may require adjusting the meter's configuration to record the surplus energy that is fed back into the grid. If necessary, the distribution company would be responsible for making the appropriate modifications.

Benefits of smart power meters

The main benefits of smart meters are:

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Quality of supply

Digital power meters are monitored, so supply interruptions, inefficient voltages, and connection failures can be identified. This makes it possible to locate and repair any problems.  

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More suitable rates

Consumers can change their contracted power or choose a rate that's more adapted to their needs. All this can be done remotely, without the need for a technician to visit the home.

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Compatible with renewable energy

It enables the integration of renewable energy sources, as they are able to measure and record the amount of energy generated by solar or wind systems connected to the grid.

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Integration with home automation systems

Smart meters are easily integrated with home automation systems. This makes it possible, among other things, to schedule when power is used to maximize energy savings.

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Energy efficiency practices

It offers users the possibility to monitor their own electricity consumption. This promotes the saving of energy resources and the adoption of responsible consumption practices.

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