Meeting the smart metering challenge

Smart metering and grids will transform the way we move and manage energy. DECC’s* smart metering programme, will rollout smart meters to 26 million homes across Great Britain by 2019. Smart meters promise to help save energy, reduce costs to consumers and utilities alike, and cut carbon emissions. However, there are complex logistical and technological challenges regarding the installation of 100,000s of meters every month and the ongoing support of over 52 million units on completion. Winning the support of consumers will also be vital to the programme’s success.

Winning coverage, and consumer engagement

Unlike other networks (that may typically achieve only 70% to 80% coverage) SmartReach uses a single, dedicated, long-range radio (LRR) communications technology that is proven to reach 99%+ of smart meters in their current locations. This helps avoid the costs associated with pre-installation surveys, relocation of meters, repeat visits for utilities and the use of “special solutions” such as external antennas mounted on consumers’ homes. Getting simple installations right first time, every time will also deliver a positive customer experience.

Realising even greater potential carbon, cost and energy savings

The successful installation of smart meters is only the first step. SmartReach provides reliable, secure communications, connecting to smart meters in every home throughout their lifetime, so that people can access the information they need, when they need it. As smart metering develops into smart grids, SmartReach is the standards based communications choice that can meet future needs. It can connect to other devices in the future wherever they are located in the low voltage network or at sub-stations. Messages used to control smart grid devices need to be delivered at speed – a feature of SmartReach. The SmartReach solution is also flexible enough to meet expanding volumes of data over time; allowing for new services to be added in as needs evolve.