IERE | 8th IERE Webinar on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

8th IERE Webinar on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

July 23, 2024

Organized by IERE

» Program (as performed)

8th IERE Webinar on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)July 23, 2024

Presentation
& Video Data

Introduction

AMI is one of the topics of interest in the power industry. Although there is a large disparity between developed and developing regions, information sharing on its global development would be beneficial to the members. K-Electric in Pakistan, IERE member, proposed to hold a webinar on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). The Central Office obtained information from experts of different regions and received their willingness to present their situations. This webinar focuses on making the system smarter to optimize the power grid, improve reliability, and reduce costs, with the hope of discussing technical issues and future plans.

Program

Opening
Lecturers
Closing

Moderator

: ISHII Hideo
Professor, Waseda Univ.
Japan

Lecturers

ISHII Hideo
Professor, Waseda Univ.
Japan

Abstract:
In Japan, the installation of the first generation smart meters will soon be completed. This will allow power utilities to measure their electricity consumption data every 30 minutes. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has held a committee meeting for about two years from 2020 to consider the specifications of the next generation smart meters, with members including experts, electric power companies, telecommunications companies, and related manufacturers. The next generation smart meters are positioned as key devices to promote digital transformation in the electricity sector, and it has been decided that they will measure not only the amount of power consumed but also voltage, and that they will be equipped with IoT routes to exchange information with devices such as gas and water meters, solar power generation, and storage batteries installed at consumers. The next generation smart meters are scheduled to be introduced from the second half of fiscal year 2025. In this presentation, their specifications and expected applications are introduced.

Biography
Hideo Ishii joined Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) in 1988. He was a visiting scientist in Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1989 to 1991. He received Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo in 1996. From 2010, he has been engaged in some major smart grid related National projects in Japan as an organizer. He is now a Professor with Advanced Collaborative Research Organization for Smart Society (ACROSS) at Waseda University. His current activity is in Electric Energy System, especially regarding Demand Response (DR) and integration of distributed energy resources (DER) including renewable energy. He has been leading DR standards in Japan. Since August 2020, he has been a Chair of IEC TC 8 SC 8C. Since December 2023, he has been a visiting researcher at National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). During 2020-2022, he was a member of Next-generation smart meter committee.

Valentina D ‘Amelio
Innovations Technical Partner and Approval Expert, NMi
Netherlands

Abstract:
The European Union aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, targeting a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030 under the "Fit for 55" initiative. This comprehensive strategy encourages the adoption of renewable energy sources—like photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, and batteries—and mandates a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), complete with necessary charging infrastructure (EVCS). This transition is transforming energy consumption patterns as consumers increasingly become "prosumers" who both produce and consume energy. By 2035, the EU will cease the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles, propelling the need for robust EVCS infrastructure.
The complexity, unpredictability, and instability of managing the evolving energy system are escalating challenges that demand a sophisticated solution. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), pivotal in providing real-time data, is crucial in this landscape.
This session will assess the progress of smart meter implementation across the EU, examining the supporting directives, regulations, and the technological advancements in communication and software that are shaping the future of smart metering.

Biography
Dr. Valentina D’Amelio is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of expertise in the electrical and energy sectors. Since joining NMi (Dutch Measuring Institute) in 2016, she has served in various roles, currently as a Technical Partner focusing on energy transition. Her work promotes innovation and education, particularly in the European and global certification of kWh meters and their safety features.
Dr. D’Amelio earned a master's degree in aerospace engineering from the University of La Sapienza, Rome, in 2005, and a PhD in System Engineering from TUDelft, Netherlands, in 2010. Her doctoral research focused on applying artificial intelligence to multidisciplinary design methodology. She is dedicated to advancing technologies and systems that enhance energy sustainability and transition.

BAI Jingfen
Senior Expert of Department of Metrology, CEPRI
China

Abstract:
State Grid Center of Metrology (SGCM) is the top metrological institution of SGCC.The aim of SGCM is to establish and maintenance the measurement system of SGCC including to provide technical support for AMI system construction. The AMI system of SGCC which covers 26 provinces in China, and serves over 1.1 billion populations is the largest AMI system in the world with 590 million smart meters. The architecture of AMI system in SGCC includes five layers, which are master station, remote communication network, data concentrate unit, local communication channel, smart meter and other sensing device. The presentation will introduce the key technology of these five layers, respectively. And technological improvement trends will be also promoted in the end of presentation .

Biography
Mrs. Bai Jingfen ( Senior Member of IEEE，Member of CIGRE) worked as a engineer for CEPRI since she received her M.E. degree from Beihang University of China in 2007. She has been with metering system and metrology technology of State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) for more than 13 years，engaged in study on power system metering and metrology technology for scientific research, calibration and test server, equipment development. As the convenor of IEC TC85 MT25, she took charge of the maintenance of IEC 60477-1 and IEC60477-2, and received “IEC 1906” Award in 2022. She has published 29 papers and 3 books and be with more than 20 patents.

Fazal-e-Rehman
Deputy General Manager, K-Electric
Pakistan

Abstract:
In this webinar, we will explore K-Electric's decade-long journey with its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. K-Electric, being the only vertically integrated power company in Pakistan, has emerged as a leader in the energy sector. We will focus on the comprehensive tracking of smart meters, both before and after installation, as well as the seamless process from field installation to final billing. Additionally, we will delve into the transformative impact of AMI on K-Electric's business operations, highlighting the various technologies integrated into their smart meters. The webinar aims to provide insights into K-Electric's strategic roll-out and KPIs that have contributed to its leadership in AMI technology among Pakistan's DISCOs.

Biography
Fazal-e-Rehman, a tech enthusiast, is currently leading the AMI Process, Projects, Support, and Governance. He has revolutionized the field of Advanced Metering Infrastructure with his significant contributions, including the ongoing implementation of a Universal Headend System and a comprehensive in-house revamp of the AMI landscape. His most notable achievement is the design of the AMI work system, which serves as the pillar, foundation, and driver of AMI in a single vision. This system, which encompasses all guidelines, defined standards, quality, and governing framework, has brought about a transformative change in K-Electric’s AMI. Currently, all processes and teams are operating under this system. Fazal’s leadership at K-Electric has been instrumental in driving digital transformation and overseeing comprehensive AMI implementations. His journey, from his graduation in Electrical Engineering from GIKI University to serving as a project manager at P&G and his current leadership role, is a testament to his dedication, technical prowess, and visionary leadership.

Adnan Ali Shaikh
Head of the AMI department, K-Electric
Pakistan

Abstract:
In this webinar we will discuss our long-term vision for AMI, focusing on advancements, optimization, and sustainability. Our vision is rooted in the belief to revolutionize K-Electric metering infrastructure of today & tomorrow by enabling smart metering solutions.
Our presentation will explore the latest advancements in AMI, demonstrating how these innovations are revolutionizing the way we manage and distribute energy. We will delve into the optimization strategies that are not only enhancing the efficiency of our operations but also improving the customer experience.
Sustainability is at the heart of our AMI vision. We will discuss how AMI technologies are enabling us to reduce our carbon footprint, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future. We want to innovate and provide cutting edge solutions in all the areas of AMI to provide data driven enabling to provide data driven power services and enhanced visibility over the generation, transmission and distribution.

Biography
Adnan Ali Sheikh, lead of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure department at K-Electric, Adnan brings over 16 years of industry experience to the table.
Adnan’s journey with K-Electric began in August 2008 when he joined as a manager, following his tenure as an E&I Engineer at AES. His leadership and innovative approach have been instrumental in driving significant changes within the company.
Under his guidance, the AMI department embarked on the pioneering initiative of implementing smart meters, setting a new standard for all DISCOs across Pakistan. This marked the beginning of a new era in metering infrastructure, making AMI a standout department in K-Electric.
Throughout his tenure, Adnan has successfully executed numerous projects, each contributing to the enhancement of AMI. His relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to his work have played a crucial role in shaping the AMI landscape in Pakistan.

Q&A—Typical QuestionsThe day was filled with many questions and a lively Q&A session.

(W-1) Current status of smart meters in Japan and expectations for next-generation AMI

Is Route B data provided to users by EMS operators or by the power company? Do users pay for it themselves? If so, how is it billed? What data and resolution can be read through Route B?: My understanding is every one minute is possible for route B reading and deployment is based on the customer. The customer decides if they actually apply for a bureau and maybe they need some equipment, including EMS, so they have to pay for that. The communication can be possible through smart meter. That is one big service provided by the utility, in case of Japan.

On slide 15, it is shown that low voltage meters support the measurements of active power, reactive power, and voltage, with a resolution as high as 1 minute. However, high voltage meters, on the other hand, do not support voltage readings and only have a resolution of 5 minutes. Typically, we would expect high voltage meter data to be more critical due to the larger power consumption involved. Could you explain the rationale behind this design choice?: To measure the voltage of high voltage smart meter, we need a transformer and accuracy. We cannot assure the accuracy of the voltage data so that's why we avoided the voltage data for high voltage smart meters. Utilities are now trying to measure the high voltage data using the switch gears. I think the utilities are trying to use this kind of voltage data for high voltage system and use that for their operation.

Is it possible to measure the instantaneous value of current from smart meter instead of average value of current at any time period?: Instantaneous value can be obtained at any time if you ask to the meter from HAN. But the period is once in every one minute or something like that.

(W-2) State of the art of smart meters Rollout, Requirements and Communication Technologies in the EU

Does the EU establish a unified standard for smart meters that all member countries are required to adopt? Or do they have the flexibility to adjust these standards based on their specific national requirements? If so, to what extent are they allowed to deviate from the EU guidelines?: There is no flexibility in the sense that meters have to comply with the standards that I mentioned before. However, the specific countries can have their own standard. For instance, in Italy, you can have obligation to test also reactive energy. But the basic remains the same, and that are the standards that are mentioned before.
How smart meter can be used to measure real time and periodic average data at the same time? Let say if I need data of any instant, is it possible to get it from smart meter?: Smart meters can measure real time (data every second) and periodic data (15min, 30min, 1 hr). However, only periodic data are stored in the so-called load profile and used. The load profiles are used mainly for billing purposes. Realtime-data can be used for instance for power usage, demand response, fault detection, load forecasting. However, shorter intervals of data collection from smart meters can have implications for bandwidth and server capacity for utilities or energy providers. These can result in increased costs for utilities or energy providers, as they may need to invest in upgraded communication networks, data storage infrastructure, and processing capabilities.
We were told that PLC communication technology is prone to Harmonics which results to unstable communication. If I understand correctly, there are a number of PLC technology today. Which one will you recommend?: I cannot recommend a specific PLC technology that better addresses the issues with harmonics. The hybrid solution of using PLC technology in hybrid form (for instance in combination with RF communication) seems the most used.

(W-3) Application and Prospect for Advanced Metering Infrastructure of State Grid Corporation of China

What processes are used to validate and verify the accuracy of the data once it is received by the central system?: The smart meter accuracy will be tested in the laboratory and in the assembly line before it is installed. Then we will be doing more tests during the running of the smart meter, maybe not one by one. Just pick some of the meters to do the review revision. Also, we do some big data analyzer through the neighborhood meters or the some meters in the transformer, to verify the data from the different meter can be the verified method to the one meter. So, we are doing the big data analyzer to verify the accuracy.

(W-4) Current Landscape, Roll-out Strategy & Current KPI of K-Electric AMI

How to make sure interoperability between matter concentrator and head end system?: Basically, it is possible either on meter or the data concentrator unit for the head end system. So currently we have achieved interoperability at MDM level, so all the data from different head end system is transferred and is consolidated in MDM system. As I mentioned in my second presentation, we are going to develop a universal head end system. So interoperability will be achieved till head end system instead of MDM system, it is also possible to redefine your standard in a way that your data concentrated unit can be able to read or communicate with the meter and collect the data from meter as per the defined standard. So these are different level where we can achieve the interoperability.

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