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The most common myths about smart meters and the facts behind them.
Smart Metering
With the shift in the energy industry, more smart and efficient technologies in the form of smart meters are in use, turning the industry towards modernism and becoming the best in present-day power delivery. Though these devices have undoubted advantages, it is natural that questions, doubts, and misconceptions emerge whenever new technology is being released.
This guide highlights the most common myths about smart meters and presents the facts behind them. Below are some of the most popular misconceptions:
One of the major misconceptions among the consumers is that smart meters run faster than the traditional meters, directly impacting the electricity bills of the consumers. If we talk about accuracy, the smart meters record energy usage accurately every 15 minutes, and this aspect eradicates the possibility of estimated billing, which may lead to overcharging if you are using traditional meters. With accurate, real-time consumption tracking, smart meters aid in promoting transparency and fairness.
In most households, such accuracy simplifies the process of comprehending the usage patterns and enables cost management of the monthly energy expenditures.
Safety is the core of smart meters. The design and implementation of smart meters offer stability and safety. Smart meters are extensively tested through a multi-level testing process, including the likes of HVIR (High Voltage Insulation Resistance) test, PCT test, Bench Test, FTT Test, etc., and meet stringent national and international safety standards before being installed. These standards include electrical safety, durability, and fire protection.
Smart meters have been developed to be safe in both residential and commercial settings and are not dangerous at all.
The smart meters just capture electricity consumption information, similar to the conventional meters, but in a more accurate and timely manner.
A smart meter transmits all the data to a centrally managed database in an encrypted and securely processed manner to prevent any unauthorised person from accessing the information. The accumulated data by smart meters is used by the DISCOMs to increase the reliability of their services, allow faster resolution of the issues, and enable consumers to monitor and manage their energy consumption efficiently.
Myth 4: Smart Meters Can Be Easily Hacked
Fact: Smart meters are built with advanced security technology.
Smart meters cannot be easily hacked, as multiple robust security measures are used in them, such as encrypted communications, secure data protocols, and frequent remote/local firmware updates. These security measures make it virtually impossible to get unauthorised access.
Energy providers and technology partners constantly check systems and upgrade protection characteristics to provide security in the long run to tackle the emerging cyber threats.
If we compare smart meters to mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, and televisions, which are commonly used devices in every household, the smart meters emit lower amounts of radio frequency signals. Furthermore, various scientific researches have confirmed that RF emissions by smart meters are under the international safety limits.
Thus, concluding that smart meters do not pose any risk at home and in the workplace.
Before and after the installation, smart meters are checked several times for accuracy. Companies are required to meet the safety and security standards to adjust to performance requirements by the accepted organisations. The repeated accuracy tests are performed by utilities, where the smart meters are tested via various methods, including measuring the recorded energy consumption against a Check Meter, checking the smart meters through various testing devices such as AccuChek, etc.
These accuracy tests demonstrate that smart meters are more accurate and beneficial than traditional meters.
Now that we have uncovered the most common myths about Smart Meters for you, it is important for the consumers to understand the various benefits associated with Smart meters that bring convenience & transparency to consumers:
Smart meters enable smarter choices of energy because they offer consumers increased visibility and control. All these facts presented here are to raise awareness among people and bust the misconceptions about smart meters.
At Polaris Grids, our vision is to provide technologically advanced, intelligent products that help in energy efficiency, transparency, safety, and bring about customer satisfaction. Smart meters, as an instrument, help to enhance daily smart energy experiences.
Polaris is building a smart meter that will empower consumers with smart choices and help them make a smarter world.
