EXPERT CORNER

Larry Colton

Director, Global Business Development & Marketing

Since meters are the cash registers for Distribution System Operators (DSOs) around the world, it is critical for DSOs to utilize electricity meters that are accurate and resilient. Countries ensure this by implementing metrology regulations and requiring certification before meters can be installed. There are various certification regulations around the world. Some are specific for individual countries, such as BEV for Austria, some cover a region, such as MID (2014/32 / EU), and one is global, OIML R46.

In Europe, MID is the certification standard. In addition to basic and advanced meter specific requirements, the Directive identifies procedures under which meter manufacturers must declare their conformity with the requirements when placing their measuring instruments on the market or putting them into service. MID is supplemented by harmonized standards and normative documents, such as CEN, CENELEC or even OIML, which contain more precise requirements and test procedures. For utilities to ensure that Smart Meters comply with the appropriate regulations, standards and certification testing, Smart Grid solution providers, such as NES, should implement extensive and detailed processes, including initial in-house testing, which is tailored for each country and market, since requirements and regulations sometimes vary.

One of the most inclusive certifications is OIML R46, which is based on European EN 50470 standards, Australian Standards, IEC 62052 and 62053 standards, and ANSI standards. With the publication of this set of documents, OIML created a worldwide acceptance tool in a rapidly evolving smart meter market. NES wanted to be a leader in this direction and, in 2016, NES became the first company in the world to receive the OIML R46 Certificate of Conformity, allowing NES to send certified smart metering products to any participating country globally.