KERC Issues Guidelines for Integrating Smart Modules in Existing Meters
The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission has recently issued guidelines for distribution licensees to successfully implement smart modules in existing digital/static meters.
September 03, 2024. By EI News Network
Following these guidelines will allow distribution licensees to integrate smart modules in existing meters, thereby enhancing metering capabilities, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Additionally, attention to cost-effectiveness, interoperability, and data security will be crucial for the successful integration of smart modules and the modernisation of energy distribution infrastructure.
According to the guideline, distribution licensees must conduct a thorough assessment of the residual life of existing meters before integrating smart modules. This assessment ensures that the existing meters have sufficient operational life left to justify the investment in smart module integration. Factors such as meter age, condition, and technological obsolescence should be considered during this evaluation.
Further, a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis should be conducted to evaluate the economic feasibility of integration. This analysis should consider factors such as installation costs, maintenance expenses, and potential revenue gains from the improved metering accuracy and data analytics.
“Smart modules, upon integration with existing meters conforming to IS l5884/IS15959 standards, must meet the functionality set forth by CEA for an effective smart metering system,” noted the guideline.
Additionally, the distribution licensee must ensure that the modules are compatible with various meters available in their operational areas. For maintenance purposes, meters and modules should be easily swappable in the field, enabling straightforward and cost-effective upkeep.
“It is crucial that these modules integrate seamlessly with the existing infrastructure and systems to minimise disruptions to the distribution network. To guarantee interoperability and proper functionality across different metering systems, compatibility testing and validation should be performed,” stated the guideline.
Distribution licensees should also implement encryption protocols, access controls, and cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive metering data.
According to the guideline, retrofitting of existing digital/static energy meter with an add-on module to read meter data and shall be equipped with advanced measurement capabilities, allowing for accurate monitoring and recording of energy consumption patterns with feature essential functionalities such as interval data recording, tamper proof and basic communication capabilities.
The guideline recommends the usage of cost-effective communication technologies such as radio frequency (RF) or cellular networks for data transmission in low-cost smart modules. These communication systems should be optimised for reliability and efficiency while minimising infrastructure costs.
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