Smartmeter

A smartmeter, also known as a smart meter, is an advanced type of energy meter that provides detailed information about electricity consumption and communicates this data back to the power grid. In the context of photovoltaics, smartmeters play a crucial role as they enable efficient monitoring and control of the production, consumption and distribution of electricity generated by photovoltaic systems.

Smartmeters are able to record data on electricity consumption and production at short intervals, often every hour or even every minute. This data is then sent to power companies or grid managers. This feature enables more accurate billing, optimisation of consumption and more efficient use of the energy produced.

In homes and businesses with PV systems, smartmeters allow you to track how much energy is produced from PV panels and how much of that energy is consumed inside the building. They can also record the amount of electricity fed back into the grid, which is key for net metering systems. This allows PV system owners to optimise their return on investment and make efficient use of the energy produced.

In addition, smartmeters can provide useful information for utility companies and electricity distributors, helping them to better understand and manage the load on the grid, and thus contribute to a more stable and efficient energy system.