By Andrea Hargraves 
Do you already have a smart meter? Smart electricity distribution networks refer to the services and tools available to users and network operators that provide access to production and consumption data.
These networks depend on a technological infrastructure supported by low voltage smart meters, communication network and data processing systems and their availability. According to recent figures, 4 million smart meters have been installed in Portugal.
E-Reases (formerly EDP Distribuição) announced this Tuesday that Exceeded the mark of four million smart meters installed, This means that two-thirds of customers are covered in mainland Portugal.
According to the statement...
Thanks to these smart meters, consumers will be able to monitor their energy profile and adjust their electricity consumption and E-RESCO technicians do not need to travel to carry out service orders or collect readings, which contributes to increased comfort and efficiency, as well as a reduced environmental footprint.
According to the company, in 2021, with the installation of the park, it was possible to avoid the emission of more than 1.6 tons of carbon dioxide.
What is the advantage of having a smart meter?
Smart grid functionality makes it possible to take readings remotely (without the use of network operator or customer staff), as well as perform other operations remotely such as changing contracted power. With smart grids, electricity consumers will be able to benefit from services such as:
- Automatic readings: It is no longer necessary to collect or give readings, as they reach the electricity distributor automatically, they are sent by the meter itself
- Invoices without estimates: With the automatic connection of readings, you are no longer charged based on estimates. You will only pay for what you consumed during the billing period
- remote operations: It also allows for remote network operations, eliminating the need for a technician to move physically whenever you want to change your power or tariff
- More effective troubleshooting: Allows for more effective troubleshooting and remote technical problem solving
- More control over your consumption: Records information on electricity consumption in short periods. Thus, if you allow the processing of your consumption data, you may be given detailed information about your profile, which will help you make more effective decisions, for example, the busiest times and the best tariff for the type of consumption. Do.
This reality also has “benefits for energy service providers and businesses, who will be able to offer customers services and price plans that adapt to consumption profiles and needs, and are an essential component of the energy transition,” the statement said.