E-meter: Soldier for the war on blackout

The technical parameters for an e-meter are defined by totally outdated standards today. These standards do not reflect the current state of knowledge and real state of the power supply system. European bureaucrats introduce savings based on smart meter rollouts, but they do not quite take into account the way of connection to the end user’s distribution. Under pressure of sanctions for not fulfilling the bold plans of Brussel’s directive 2020, plenty of utilities began to rollout suggested standardized interoperable systems (PRIME, G3-PLC).

While this solution perhaps can replace the need for manual meter reading, it will not solve the real needs of utilities.

Utilities have to face the following challenges:

Within the power network, there are massive installations of appliances generating a high spectrum of voltage and current harmonics
The influence of stochastic production is increasing as a result of the high penetration of renewable generation
Penetration of production into the field of distribution leads to growth in power flows
Installation of large capacity renewable sources against an insufficiently built transmission system.

The above-mentioned points are the biggest threat and cause of blackouts. Obviously, the question is not whether they will occur, but when, and whether we are able to fight against this phenomenon and its impacts.

The Need for Advanced Measurement

It is clear that both consumed and produced energy is a complex system. It is therefore essential, so that measuring of delivery and consumption is realized. The measurement of basic harmonics will not therefore be sufficient.

It is necessary to equip all e-meters with disconnectors. The aim is not to disconnect the customer totally (even if it were possible), but to regulate (limit) consumption, especially in crisis periods, when there is a lack of power supply. That is why, in order to minimize the impacts of blackouts, establishing an island regime is required.

Securing Communications and Cybersecurity

If the e-meter is controlled remotely and is equipped with a high-powered element (disconnector), it is crucial to secure communications from cyber intrusion or interference. The power supply system, with its vital functionality for society is one of the most vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

An e-meter with disconnector is very strong tool for preventing blackouts, if it is combined with a frequency relay. This relay monitors changes in power energy frequency in real time (in milliseconds), and can react promptly to changes.

Frequency is the main indicator of an emergency state. Load disconnection, or connection in a crisis situation, can to stop a massive blackout, or decrease its impacts, respectively.

Via the monitoring of the direction of power flow (together with voltage increase), we are able to regulate the customer (with possible disconnection) in order not to unnecessarily burden the stability of power supply system. We thus get the tool that can very effectively help with electricity network stabilization.

The Customer as a Key Player

There is no doubt we have to think about the customer as an inseparable part of power supply system. Every household is a potential partner from the immediate consumption point of view, and, more importantly, with the accumulation possibility.

At this point, the e-meter should begin to operate as a home switchboard. This is able to manage home accumulation in an optimal way.

Last but not least, it is necessary to have home switchboards if the household is equipped with photovoltaic power. This functionality aims to optimize energy flow at the customer’s premises and is perfectly suitable for implementation into the e-meter. All necessary elements (measuring, load control, communication, display, etc.) are already realized in e-meter.

Data Exchange and Future Prospects

Data exchange between the e-meter and outer world is vital. It is, thus also necessary to concentrate on efficiency in data transmission.

Although the current standardized interoperable e-meters are not able to ensure the functionality of the home switchboard (and not at all to contribute to the power supply system stabilization), there are already new solutions emerging today, where described characteristics are not only in sexy PowerPoint presentation form.

We can say that these functionalities are realized in physical form, even though in the form of single devices (in case of frequency relay also in legislation form). Integration into the one platform (into the one e-meter) also exists, there is only one limiting factor for extension: higher price. However, if utilities fully realize all positive impacts of installation of these e-meters, the price will not be the obstacle in future.

Conclusion: The Future of E-Meters

E-meters must evolve beyond outdated standards to address modern power supply challenges. With enhanced measurement capabilities, secure communication, and integration of frequency relays, they can serve as powerful tools in blackout prevention and grid stabilization.

As utilities recognize the long-term benefits, investment in these advanced e-meters will become an inevitability rather than a choice.