The future of smart metering: SaaS as a paradigm for AMI operations

The digitalization of the energy industry is advancing rapidly, and smart metering is at the heart of it. The constant challenge is to ensure that operations are not only secure and flexible, but also reliable and resource efficient. The motto is thereby: after the rollout is before the rollout. A key component in meeting these requirements — and one that more and more energy utilities are opting for — is optimizing the IT infrastructure by switching from an on-prem to a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) cloud-based solution. Moving to a SaaS solution is not just about transitioning from on-premises systems, it's about embracing a comprehensive model that enables energy utilities to leverage new capabilities and maximize the benefits of smart metering solutions and the data they collect. SaaS adoption across EMEA is accelerating, with the market projected to reach $102.84 billion by 2025 and growing at an annual rate of 19.17%^[1]. Similarly, 54% of companies in EMEA have already adopted cloud solutions in most parts of their business^[2]. In the utilities sector, 75.3% of enterprises are highly dependent on cloud services.^[3] However, the shortage of cloud specialists is a significant challenge, making it crucial for organizations to invest in training and strategic hiring.

Adopting Software as a Service (SaaS) instead of managing on-premises software applications has become a standard approach in modern IT strategies and there are several key factors that make it a compelling choice for ensuring long-term operational success:

1. One of the most significant advantages is cost-effectiveness. Unlike a traditional in-house infrastructure that requires substantial upfront investments and ongoing operational expenses, Saas eliminates the need for significant initial costs for hardware or software licenses, and minimizes costs for maintenance, development, monitoring, updating, or troubleshooting. Energy suppliers only pay for the resources they actually use, enabling full cost transparency and allowing them to focus on their core competencies.
   
   
2. SaaS solutions are characterized by rapid deployment, with no need to install or configure physical servers. The software is ready for use within a short timeframe, and automatic updates ensure it remains current without burdening your IT team with additional tasks.
   
   
3. A SaaS solution also offers maximum performance with low latency and high flexibility. They are designed to scale effortlessly, ensuring fast data processing and consistent service quality. Service Level Agreements (SLAs) further guarantee reliability and performance.
   
   
4. SaaS solutions offer the highest level of security essential for operating critical infrastructure. Leading providers adhere to internationally recognized standards such as ISO 27001 and support data storage in Swiss data centres to comply with the Swiss Data Protection Act (DPA). Built-in features like automated backups, disaster recovery, and a holistic approach to cyber security—from staff training to compliance—ensure your environment remains secure, resilient and up to date.
   
   
5. Cloud platforms unlock powerful opportunities in data analysis. With scalable computing resources and advanced tools, large volumes of data can be analyzed with precision—whether for optimizing grid operations (e.g., flexibility management, power quality) or enhancing field transparency through solutions like the Smart Meter Operations Center (SMOC). Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning can be easily integrated and supported.
   
   
6. In addition to predictable and optimized costs, SaaS solutions offer exceptional system availability, backed by tailored Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Redundant infrastructure ensures 24/7 operation and global access, significantly simplifying system operation and maintenance while ensuring business continuity.
   
   
7. Using a SaaS solution also contributes to sustainability. By sharing resources across users, it significantly reduces the overall carbon footprint. This makes cloud solutions not only efficient but also environmentally responsible. Notably, the Landis+Gyr cloud has been climate-neutral since 2017, underscoring its commitment to sustainable innovation.

The Landis+Gyr AMI SaaS solution designed to operate within a critical infrastructure, meets all the above criteria and gives you the flexibility, and related benefits, to manage your smart metering software and the underlying IT infrastructure with a trusted partner. The platform is continuously developed, with a strong focus on cyber security. Ongoing optimization and regular updates to the cloud environment are essential components of the solution, ensuring proactive protection against changing cyber threats and maintaining the highest standards of security and performance.

The cloud operator is an important strategic partner for Landis+Gyr. Together we are working on innovations from which you as a customer can benefit. In the coming months, enhancements will be introduced that will minimize downtime due to maintenance and updates. The continuous enhancement of the cloud infrastructure is closely linked to the development of the 2nd generation HES. This will be launched on the market soon and is cloud-native, which will result in significant advantages in day-to-day operations.

For energy utilities, this will provide a powerful and future-proof leverage for efficiently mastering the challenges of smart metering. Data protection and security are always guaranteed, supported by a local cloud solution with certified partners.

Successfully in use since 2019: Liechtenstein customer LKW relies on SaaS solution from Landis+Gyr

Liechtensteinische Kraftwerke (LKW) opted for a fundamental technological change in 2019. The previously operated on-premises solution was associated with increased maintenance effort, hardware costs and personnel deployment.

To meet these challenges, Landis+Gyr offered a modern SaaS solution in mid-2019 - with full go-live by October of the same year. The convincing offer was approved and put into practice.

Since then, LKW has benefited from lean operations: those responsible do not have to worry about software updates, maintenance, hardware provision or IT/OT security. In the event of technical problems, the Landis+Gyr support team is available quickly and competently.

The positive experience speaks for itself: the recently tendered project for the procurement of an intelligent metering system (iMS) will also continue to be implemented on the Landis+Gyr SaaS platform.

Are you looking for a flexible, future-ready Smart Metering SaaS solution that adapts to your utility’s evolving needs? Our platform offers a range of subscription options—from device management and data acquisition to meter data management and advanced analytics - all built on a secure, scalable IT foundation. We are happy to advise you and develop a customized solution for you, based on a reliable, scalable, and secure IT platform that is continuously maintained and monitored by dedicated experts—because together, we are shaping the future of smart metering.