Volume 37: New Energy, New Ecology and New Environment

Advanced Metering Infrastructure in Smart Grids: Towards a More Efficient and Sustainable Energy System Vivian Cárdenas-Galindo, Liz Varga

Abstract

The current high energy demand and the urge to fight climate change, in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, have promoted the utilisation of digital tools that contribute to more efficient and sustainable energy systems. Thus, an Internet of Things (IoT) application in the energy sector can be the implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) which has a great potential to contribute to more reliable energy grids and the introduction of renewable energies. AMI is a three-component technology composed of smart meters, a complex communication network and a data management system which combined enable a two-way communication. This study discusses the multiple benefits that AMI deployment can offer, including real-time data readings reported to the customer and the utility operator – supporting better decision making as well as energy and costs savings –, better O&M of the grid, automated billing with better accuracy, and less greenhouse gases emissions. Likewise, the risks and challenges derived from this technology are explored, considering data privacy and security, investment required, social acceptance and inclusion, among others. Finally, the minimum requirements for AMI proper functioning and opportunities for future improvement are covered to achieve greater efficiency in a sustainable and trustable energy system that involves stakeholders.

Keywords Sustainable energy systems, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), Smart meters, Two-way communication network, Renewable energies.