What’s the difference between an AMR and a smart meter?

What is an AMR Electricity Meter?

An AMR meter is often confused with other types of energy meters, but hopefully after reading this article the differences as-well as the pros and cons of each become easy to see!

An AMR meter creates a connection between the business client and their energy supplier. The communication only transmits in one direction, from the client to the supplier. Suppliers will receive a meter reading once a month in order to calculate accurate billing based upon usage. This completely negates the need for monthly manual readings, a common pain for many. By using an AMR meter, it not only allows for more accurate billing – but allows analysis of energy consumption by customers, which could have many knock-on effects.

AMR stands for Automated Meter Reading device, which because now you know how it works, makes a lot of sense!

Are there different types/forms of AMR meters?

Yes, there are.

There are a multitude of manufacturers of AMR meters, all offering something slightly different at different price-points. This is not the main area to focus on however, as form-type of devices offers the most variety.

What are the benefits of an AMR device?

There has been some serious innovation in production of different types of energy consumption meters – which have led to some pretty serious consumer benefits. Gone are the days of panicking about a forgotten manual meter reading submission. AMR devices have shown some incredible benefits for businesses:

• Direct transmission of readings, removing the need for manual submissions!
• More accurate billing based upon reliable usage figures.
• Ability to analyse consumption habits and trends.
• No more estimated bills!
• Maximising energy efficiency through improved knowledge, understanding, and data provision.
• Flexible time-sensitive tariffs can be offered, allowing access to lower cost energy during demand lulls.
• Potential for reduced carbon emissions and environmental credentials through increased data provision.

What are Smart meters?

Smart meters are similar, but also completely different. Confused? Keep reading then!

Smart meters are also a relatively new type of metering technology, with the most recent generation-type being introduced around 2018. There are two types of smart meters – SMETS1 and SMETS2. The SMETS1 is the predecessor to the more modern SMETS2. This is not just a catchy name, but actually refers to the technical standards they are produced to – Smart Metering Equipment Technical Standard.

There are currently an estimated 18 million SMETS1 meters in use across the UK. SMETS1 meters transmit data over 3G to communicate directly to your supplier. SMETS 2 are slightly different in that they transmit data into a central data network that all suppliers have access to.

This minor difference is hugely important when switching supplier or moving into a new property. SMETS1 meters will lose a huge amount of their functionality following a switch as they are directly connected to a supplier, and will behave more like a traditional meter. SMETS2 meters have offered a handy solution to this problem by feeding directly into a central data network that allsuppliers have access to – retaining smart-meter functionality.

Smart meters are more targeted towards both domestic and business customers, whereas AMR meters are more specifically aimed at just businesses.

What are the benefits of a smart meter?

A lot of these benefits may seem to overlap with AMR meters – showing that the historical problems within the energy industry have been shared between domestic and business customers. Benefits from smart meters are as follows:

• Automatic transmission of readings, no more manual submissions!
• More accurate billing based upon reliable usage figures.
• No more estimated bills!
• Improved security and tamper detection.
• Optional smart energy display, showing real-time billing in chosen currency.
• Feedback on energy habits and trends, allowing reduction in usage.
• Provides a better data source for UK energy market, providing further innovation and accuracy in energy procurement and supply.
• Optional operation as a prepayment meter.

What is the downside of a smart meter?

• Smart meters collect detailed information about a household’s energy usage, including the timing of energy consumption. Some individuals are concerned that this data could be used to invade their privacy, reveal their daily routines, and even potentially be exploited by malicious actors.
• There have been claims, although largely unsubstantiated, that the radiofrequency (RF) emissions from smart meters may have adverse health effects. Some people worry about prolonged exposure to RF radiation and its potential impact on their well-being.
• Smart meters are vulnerable to hacking and cyberattacks. If an attacker gains control of a smart meter, they could manipulate the data, disrupt energy services, or even use the device as a point of entry into the home network. Ensuring the security of these devices is a significant challenge.
• The rollout and installation of smart meters can be expensive, and these costs are often passed on to consumers through rate increases. Some people argue that the benefits of smart meters may not justify the financial burden.
• Smart meters give utility companies more control over energy management, which can limit the consumer’s ability to make decisions about their energy usage. Some individuals prefer to have more control over their energy consumption and may find this aspect of smart meters restrictive.

They sound very similar, what are the main differences between AMR and Smart meters?

Due to the similarity between these meter types, and some shared functionality – this often leads to confusion.

There are a few small differences that will help you to differentiate between the two meter-types. Firstly, AMR meters only communicate directly between business customer and supplier – whereas new smart meters have a two-way connection between energy supplier and customer. This may seem like splitting hairs a little, but these minute differences are quite important to energy suppliers (as-well as customers).

Secondly, the volume of information that is transferred differs between the two meter-types. AMR meters only send kWh usage information, and sometimes peak kW demand for the month. Conversely, smart meters send a litany of information. This often includes, but is not limited to:

• Cumulative kWh usage
• Daily usage and consumption
• Peak kW demand
• Voltage information
• Outage information
• Time of use kWh and also peak kW readings
• Tamper notifications to supplier
• Optional Smart energy display (running total of monthly billing)

What meter should I use?

Luckily, the UK government has issued guidelines to help you with this decision.

Any businesses who have AMR devices are allowed to keep them. Most businesses who have had any meter installations since 2018 will have already received a smart meter, so this really only includes any businesses who had meter installations predating 2018. From now, any meter upgrades will automatically be to a smart meter rather than an AMR.

This is in-part due to the additional functionality of new-generation smart meters. They allow a much greater degree of control over energy consumption, as-well as providing incredible insight through data collection. These new guidelines exert just a little bit of pressure towards transitioning into energy consciousness throughout the UK, for domestic customers, business customers, and suppliers. This can only be considered to be a good thing!

Expert Questions

What are AMR systems?

Automated Meter Reading (AMR) systems are innovative solutions that revolutionize how energy consumption data is collected from meters. These systems, including AMR devices and AMR meters, play a vital role in modernizing energy management. Totalenergies Gas and other energy suppliers utilize AMR technology to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of billing processes.

Unlike manual meter reading, where readings are taken manually from the meters, AMR systems automatically collect and transmit data. These systems are designed for various applications, ranging from non-domestic to business customers. With AMR and smart meters, energy suppliers can better manage energy consumption, offering accurate billing and enabling customers to monitor their usage more effectively.

One of the key differences between AMR and smart meters lies in the way they operate. Smart meters provide real-time data and two-way communication, allowing energy companies to remotely manage and adjust energy supply. On the other hand, AMR meters are designed primarily for accurate data collection, transmitting readings to suppliers periodically.

AMR systems have many benefits, such as reducing the need for manual meter reading, enhancing energy demand management, and paving the way for time-sensitive tariffs. As the energy industry evolves, AMR systems continue to contribute to achieving energy efficiency goals and offering better visibility into energy consumption patterns for businesses and consumers alike.

What’s the best CIS and metering system for your utility?

Choosing the right Customer Information System (CIS) and metering system for your utility is crucial for effective energy management. With innovations like AMR and smart meters, such as those offered by Totalenergies Gas, utilities can streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.

AMR devices and smart meters provide automated meter reading capabilities, revolutionizing the way energy consumption data is collected and transmitted. They offer a wealth of benefits for both energy suppliers and consumers. While AMR meters focus on accurate data collection and periodic transmission, smart meters go a step further with real-time data and two-way communication.

For utilities, the choice between AMR and smart meters depends on various factors, including the specific needs of the utility, its energy customers, and the desired level of engagement. AMR systems are often favored for their simplicity, while smart meters provide enhanced functionality and data-driven insights.

The energy industry’s transformation has also led to the development of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), integrating electricity and gas meters with intelligent communication networks. This empowers utilities to offer better customer service, achieve energy efficiency goals, and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

By assessing the differences between AMR and smart meters, utilities can align their choices with customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and their own energy management objectives. Ultimately, selecting the best CIS and metering system ensures utilities can better manage energy demand, improve billing accuracy, and offer valuable insights to customers for a sustainable energy future.

How can metering help you?

Metering plays a pivotal role in transforming the way we manage energy consumption and make informed decisions about our energy use. Whether it’s through traditional meters, AMR devices, or smart meters like those provided by Totalenergies Gas, metering empowers individuals, businesses, and utilities alike.

AMR and smart meters revolutionize energy management by automating the meter reading process. They provide real-time data on energy consumption, allowing consumers to monitor their usage patterns and make adjustments to save on their energy bills. This technology also benefits energy suppliers by enabling accurate billing and enhancing customer satisfaction.

For businesses, metering systems are essential tools for energy management. By analyzing consumption data, businesses can identify areas of inefficiency and implement strategies to reduce energy waste. This not only helps cut operational costs but also contributes to sustainability efforts and regulatory compliance.

In the broader energy industry, metering systems support the transition to a more sustainable future. Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), along with AMR and smart meters, plays a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions targets by 2025. With improved visibility into energy consumption and demand, utilities can better manage energy supply and distribution, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy grid.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to lower your energy bills, a business striving for sustainability, or a utility aiming for improved operational efficiency, metering systems offer valuable insights and opportunities for better energy management.

What is a metering strategy?

A metering strategy is a carefully planned approach to managing energy consumption and data collection using various metering technologies. This strategy involves the implementation of different types of meters, such as AMR devices, smart meters, and advanced meters, to gather accurate and real-time information about energy usage.

A well-designed metering strategy, like those offered by Totalenergies Gas, aims to optimize energy management for various stakeholders, including homeowners, businesses, and utilities. It encompasses the installation of smart and AMR meters, which provide valuable insights into energy consumption patterns, allowing users to make informed decisions to reduce energy waste and lower bills.

For businesses, a metering strategy is a crucial tool for energy management, helping to identify areas of inefficiency and implement measures for improvement. Additionally, utilities benefit from this strategy by having accurate consumption data for billing purposes and to ensure an efficient energy supply.

The integration of smart meters, AMR devices, and other advanced metering technologies into the energy market signifies a shift toward a more sustainable and efficient energy ecosystem. With the support of a well-executed metering strategy, the energy industry is better positioned to meet regulatory goals, such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2025, and to provide consumers with better visibility and control over their energy use.

What is the difference between metering and submetering?

Metering and submetering are both essential concepts in energy management, but they serve different purposes. Metering involves the installation of various types of meters, such as AMR devices, smart meters, and advanced meters, to measure and record energy consumption. This data is used for billing, monitoring usage patterns, and optimizing energy efficiency.

On the other hand, submetering takes metering a step further by installing additional meters at specific points within a building or facility. These submeters provide more detailed insights into energy usage for individual areas, departments, or equipment. Submetering enables businesses to identify energy-intensive areas, allocate costs accurately, and implement targeted energy-saving strategies.

For example, Totalenergies Gas offers advanced metering solutions that include both traditional meters and smart meters. While metering helps capture overall consumption, submetering allows businesses to delve into specific sections to pinpoint opportunities for energy reduction. This distinction is vital for energy management, especially for larger businesses that want to better manage energy costs, allocate expenses, and improve overall sustainability.

Which type of meter is right for your business?

Choosing the right type of meter for your business depends on various factors, including your energy consumption patterns, budget, and goals. AMR devices, smart meters, and advanced meters each offer unique benefits that cater to different business needs.

AMR meters, short for Automated Meter Reading, provide accurate consumption data and eliminate the need for manual meter readings. They are particularly useful for businesses seeking accurate billing and efficient data collection.

Smart meters take data collection a step further by providing real-time insights into energy usage. They enable businesses to monitor consumption patterns, identify energy-saving opportunities, and even participate in demand-response programs.

Advanced meters, often used interchangeably with smart meters, can offer additional features tailored to specific industries or needs. They may provide more detailed data on specific energy parameters.