|
|
 |
|
Viewing report
|
|
|
|
Smart Metering - A Technology Analysis
Frost & Sullivan, Dec 2009, Pages: 72
This research services provides an in depth look into the recent trends and developments in the smart metering arena. Factors influencing this market are analyzed and key industry players are profiled.
This Frost & Sullivan research service titled Smart Metering - A Technology Analysis provides an in-depth analysis of the market drivers and restraints, industry trends, and competitive environment, in addition to the challenges and issues faced by market participants. In this research, Frost & Sullivan's expert analysts thoroughly examine the following application sectors: smart metering, smart grid, and meter data management systems (MDMSs).
Technology Overview
Potential for Energy Saving Ramps up the Attraction Quotient for Smart Metering Technologies
Against the background of escalating environmental concerns and rising energy prices, smart metering technologies have emerged as ideal solutions for utility companies striving to address these issues. Smart metering is part of a global trend, indicating the shift toward a digital economy. As the focus intensifies on energy efficiency, manufacturers are stepping up the ante to roll out devices that are capable of controlling and monitoring energy usage and supporting environmental initiatives. Global climate change is a major factor driving the urgent need for technological advances in the utilities industry. The implementation of such systems will provide environmental benefits, as reduced overall electricity usage will translate into emission mitigation. Moreover, all the facets of the entire electric system, from generation and transmission right up to distribution and consumption, will be considerably enhanced. 'Regulations aimed at improving energy efficiency constitute a major driver for this market,' notes the analyst of this research service. 'The demand that is being generated in the smart metering industry as a result of favorable government policies is creating tremendous opportunities for further investments.' The smart metering industry in Europe is being driven by regulations and legislation primarily. The European Parliament mandates require EU member states to have in place smart meters with 80 percent coverage by 2020.
Although the benefits of smart metering and the ultimate smart grid are numerous, there are some aspects restraining market progression. Despite the hype surrounding smart metering technology, utilities and consumers are wary about its adoption. This can be attributed to a lack of knowledge about this emerging technology. Moreover, the additional cost of $3.5 on utility bill in the United States, for instance, will stand in the way of deeper market penetration of smart metering. Technologies that are integral to a smart grid, such as smart meters, sensors, and communication networks, make the grid susceptible to attack from hackers. Interoperability issues have also proved challenging for market participants. While the introduction of smart meters paves the way for real-time availability of consumption/generation metered data, the management of such high volumes of data remains an onerous task. The operating benefits of smart metering and climate change are common across the globe; however, discrepancies exist in the communications technologies incorporated, standards, and regulatory environment. The diverse number of communication protocols has caused serious compatibility problems for utilities, suppliers, and consumers alike.
Considering the extent of interoperability that is required for efficient functioning of a smart grid, the establishment of technical standards on a large scale is very important. Appropriate management of meter data enables utilities to make predictions regarding the system load and usage, which, in turn, would help to avoid imbalances and reduce off-network purchases. Further analysis of this data helps to improve the system throughput and speed up the service restoration after power outages. 'From manual meter readings to realization of the smart grid, developments are continuously evolving,' observes the analyst. 'Smart meters represent the first step towards energy management and constitute an integral part of the bigger picture of the smart grid.'
Market Sectors
Expert Frost & Sullivan analysts thoroughly examine the following market sectors in this research:
- Smart metering
- Smart grid
- Meter data management systems (MDMSs)
- Technologies
The following technologies are covered in this research:
- ZigBee, Z-Wave, and Wavenis
- Wi-Fi
- Two-way automatic communication system (TWACS)
- ANSI C12.22
- Power line communication or power line carrier (PLC)
Product samples
A sample for this product is available. Please Login/Register to download this sample.
Customers who bought this item also bought
Assessing the Smart Grid Opportunity
Smart Grid: The Coming Revolution In Electrical Power Transmission And Distribution - Global Markets, Technologies And Competitors: 2010-2020 Analysis And Forecasts
Power Electronics: Trends for Smart Grid Adoption
European Smart Grid Market: Automation Opportunities
Global Smart Grid Market
Growth Opportunities in Global Smart Grid Market 2011–2016: Trends, Forecast, and Market Share Analysis
Electricity Storage Technologies: Market Penetration and Roadmapping
Decentralized Power Generation: Technology Penetration and Roadmapping
European Smart Meter Markets
Global Study of Data Communications Usage Patterns and Plans in the Electric Power Industry: 2011-2015
|
|
|
|
