Potential inaccuracy of electricity meters due to real-world interference requires new type tests and validated methods beyond the IEC 61000 4 19 for determining electricity meter performance.

Potential inaccuracy of electricity meters due to real-world interference requires new type‑tests and validated methods beyond the IEC 61000‑4‑19 for determining electricity meter performance.  Also, reference ‘benchmark meters’ to settle consumer metering disputes are required.

The response of the EU installed base of static electricity meters to real‑world inference is uncertain and some considerable meter errors have been found in some instruments.  A wide selection of meter types installed in a range of EU countries are tested using real‑world waveforms and testbeds in order to assess the extent of the problem of meter errors. The results of these tests are critical in the determination of the extent of any accuracy issues with the EU wide smart meter roll‑out and are of importance to industry and regulators. The process of testing these meters effectively leads to new type approval procedures using testbeds and a selection of the most exacting, practical and realistic waveforms, as captured at real meter connection points.

Whilst international standards should specify new type testing, which should improve meter accuracy, there will always be customer complaints regarding suspect electricity billing. To resolve such disputes between customer and supplier ultimately a field comparison with a benchmark meter may be required. A suitable benchmark meters is available as a reference instruments which is immune to the types of disturbing signals that cause errors in some meter designs; the meter current connections are non‑invasive so that they can be safely installed without dismantling the customer’s circuit and interrupting the supply.

For more information, see the project webpage >>