MONITORING & METERING


FIG1 A modern metering system with a selection of technologies can be complex


Signifi cance of site topology The diversity of site topologies necessitates a tailored approach to energy monitoring technology selection. Factors such as the size and complexity of the site, whether a single retail unit or a multi-site campus, significantly influence the choice between radio, cabling, GSM (global system for mobile), and LAN (local area network) communications. A comprehensive understanding of the site topology is crucial for determining the most suitable technology, which, in turn, impacts costs, complexity, and user adaptability for future system operation and management.


Can wireless technologies revolutionise energy metering?


Why clients and system contractors of energy monitoring systems must delve deeper to ensure the suitability, resilience, and long-term viability of wireless technology in any metering solution.


Tim Hooper www.elcomponent.co.uk


W


ideal for battery-powered devices. Zigbee: A low-power, low-data-rate


Managing director of Elcomponent Ltd


wireless communication standard suitable for metering applications, known for its low power consumption and compatibility with home automation. NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet


ireless technology in commercial and industrial settings differs significantly from that


in residential properties. Therefore, wireless technologies must exhibit robustness, scalability, security, and reliability, with a focus on commercial and industrial applications, rather than adopting smart home technology. For the context of this discussion,


I will focus on wireless connections for commercial and industrial applications. At Elcomponent we hold our own perspective on the wireless technology we predominantly support, though it is crucial to note that the availability of hardware specifically for energy metering can be constrained depending on the chosen technology. Various wireless technologies


present distinct merits and pitfalls. The most common ones include: LoRa (LoraWan): Designed for


long-range communication with low power consumption, suitable for remote metering. Bluetooth: A widely used


technology for short-range wireless communication, with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) being energy-efficient,


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of Things): A cellular technology designed specifically for the Internet of Things (IoT), providing long-range communication with low power consumption, suitable for metering applications. Wireless MBUS: Specifically designed for MBUS-compatible meters and data loggers. Proprietary Solutions: Generally


to be avoided for general metering applications. It is important to clarify that this


article does not aim to endorse a specific technology or discuss the merits of particular wireless solutions. Instead, it aims to provide insights into the considerations necessary to ensure a robust, reliable system that can operate effectively for many years, delivering accurate information to relevant stakeholders.


Challenges of wireless Understanding the client’s needs, the type of sites and locations requiring metering, and the desired data and its presentation are paramount. While wireless solutions can simplify physical installations, they may introduce complexities in system commissioning, configuration, and


documentation, impacting the overall quality of the commissioned system. The other emerging trend with


wireless technologies is proprietary solutions and closed eco systems. On the surface they are slick and simple to use. However, these are often accompanied by recurring fees and, in the case of a site issue or failure to receive data, there are no self-help tools to resolve the situation. This is not a sustainable approach and we have seen many of these solutions become unserviceable after only a few years.


Client-centric approach Clients often initiate the decision- making process by evaluating software solutions and then working backward to select data collection systems and metering hardware. However, it is advisable for clients to consider their metering solution from a basic perspective before delving into software demonstrations. Questions such as the future scalability of the system, potential changes in data usage, and the time required for system management should guide the decision-making process. The ideal solution, both in terms of


hardware and software, is one that provides a robust system capable of easy adaptation, working seamlessly with any metering device, and facilitating data transmission to various systems or recipients. The selected software should accept data from different sources without being inherently tied to a specific hardware solution.


General design principles Elcomponent adheres to certain design principles regardless of the chosen provider: Reuse existing equipment where


possible: Rather than replacing serviceable metering, focus on standardising communications, ensuring flexibility in the face of meter availability changes. Avoid proprietary equipment:


Steer clear of being locked into specific hardware or metering devices. Design for robustness and


longevity: Ensure the system is designed to provide comprehensive data over many years. Enable flexible data transmission:


Ensure the system can send data to one or multiple locations, with easy adaptability for future changes.


No magic solution Despite the deployment of various technologies, there is no one-size- fits-all solution for all scenarios. In reality, a system may require a combination of different solutions based on specific needs. For instance, a switch panel with existing meters may only need a data logger connected to meter communications for a robust solution. Conversely, a complex site, such as a quarry or a university campus, may necessitate a combination of wireless technology, site LAN, and GSM solutions, emphasising the importance of data consistency and management. From the client’s perspective,


addressing these issues and complexities may seem mundane, making the role of a contractor with a proven track record critical. Metering across large estates, multiple sites, or complex buildings is inherently intricate, and anyone claiming otherwise likely lacks a comprehensive understanding of metering. ■


EIBI | FEBRUARY 2024


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