Smart Metering Implementation Programme Consultation

The UK Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) is holding a consultation on Smart Meters. There are fears the meters could use polluting Power Line Communications (PLT/PLC).

The Smart Meter plan envisages two-way communications to the meters that will be installed in every home in the country and possibly links to other devices within the house. This would provide the utility companies with a means of continually monitoring peoples homes. In theory employees at the utility company could determine if a particular house is unoccupied by checking the amount of electricity or gas being used that day.

The best approach to implement two-way communications is to use Wireless technology, both within the home between various devices as well as between the Smart Meter and the utility companies data collection point. Suitable systems have been developed using the 864 MHz and 412/422 MHz bands. Another good Wireless approach would be to use the cell-phone network.

There is, however, a danger that inappropriate technology such as Power Line Communications (PLC/PLT) may be used. This could result in widespread pollution of the radio spectrum ruining peoples enjoyment of their favourite radio show.

The DECC is seeking views and comments on the proposals from the public. The deadline for responses on a number of the consultation questions is 28 October 2010. However, they are also seeking responses on a number of key consultation questions on a shorter timescale – by 28 September 2010 – to facilitate earlier decisions where this is possible and appropriate.

The DECC Smart Meter consultation, with links to DECC & Ofgem supporting documents, is at
http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/
smart_mtr_imp/smart_mtr_imp.aspx

Smart Metering Implementation Programme PDF
http://www.decc.gov.uk/Media/viewfile.ashx?
FilePath=Consultations/smart-meter-imp-prospectus/
220-smart-metering-prospectus-condoc.pdf&filetype=4

Communications Business Model - mentions PLC
http://www.decc.gov.uk/Media/viewfile.ashx?
FilePath=Consultations/smart-meter-imp-prospectus/
226-smart-metering-imp-comm-business.pdf&filetype=4

ZigBee to be wireless standard for smart meters in Europe
http://www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2009/05/
29/46180/zigbee-to-be-wireless-standard-for-smart-
meters-in-europe.htm

Arqiva testing Long-Range Radio for Smart Meters
http://www.smartmeters.com/the-news/
1080-arqiva-testing-long-range-radio.html

BT and Partners propose secure long-range radio for national smart meter rollout
http://www.detica.com/news-and-events/
press-releases.html?task=asset&Artid=652&id=1