Smart meters area meters that collect data on energy usage and share it with the user or the
providing company. The duration of intervals of communication can be reset according to the
user’s wish.
Advantages of smart meters
1. Smart meters can be interconnected in a smart grid to automate reading of meters; thus
the energy provider wastes less time and labor in invoicing the users and the Users spend
less time waiting for readers.
2. Smart meters provide the unique possibility of tracking the time of use statistics thus
making it possible to bill people based on the time of use. These statistics can aso be used
to optimize the supply line to ensure value-for-money for parties involved.
3. By showing the users how much energy they are spending per unit time, smart meters
prompt one to take deliberate steps towards saving money
4. These meters reduce the need for estimates during planning and billing by providing the
exact usage statistics.
Disadvantages of smart meters
1. By enabling suppliers to cut-off indebted employees there is a chance of leaving
vulnerable families in a more destitute state.
2. The meters require a strong signal to function ‘smartly,’ thus installation costs are quite
high as the provider looks to offset `their expenses.
3. Smart meters feedback system creates a security weakness which could be exploited for
purposes of terror.
