The introduction of smart metering impacts every area of a utility's business. Energy supply, network operation, meter readings, customer service and billing are all affected. In order to maximize the benefits of the smart infrastructure, the overall IT architecture serving these adjacent processes should be carefully planned before rolling out AMI. IT plays a significant role also during the smart meter installation phase and can either slow down the rollout or, in the best case, drive it forward.
As our customers strive for efficiency and security in a dynamic and constantly changing environment, they need to consider new operational models. This explains a growing interest in Managed Services, delivered by specialist external partners to manage utility’s AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) operations and processes – like AMI software and IT system hosting known as “Software as a Service” (SaaS).
New technology allows cost-efficient, robust data transfer from smart energy meters into utility business systems and paves the way for new innovations in the energy sector.
I recently had the opportunity to review the “Electric Grid Managed Services Report – 2018” published by IHS Markit. There is no question that the report is excellent reading for anyone interested in service business in the energy industry. In their report, IHS Markit describes the key steps of AMI evolution, which inspired me to discuss the steps from the service business perspective.
How can an AMI technology provider prove the flexibility and future-readiness of its solution better than by continuously creating new opportunities in smart metering and reacting to the rapid market development? Landis+Gyr demonstrates its capabilities to meet energy utilities’ expectations and needs by adding the latest advantageous communications technology to its AMI portfolio – NB-IoT will contribute to smart grid functionalities and to the Internet of Things.
In December, Landis+Gyr announced that its long-term partner Syd Energi Net A/S in Denmark has selected the company to supply meters, communication technology, software and integration as well as the meter rollout as a turnkey service.
