A smart meter is a digital device that electronically records, stores, and remotely transmits daily consumed and injected energy to your distribution network operator (DNO).
In Brussels, that's Sibelga. We then provide this data from your smart electricity meter to your energy supplier so they can generate an accurate bill.
Some facts about the smart meter in Brussels:
- Currently, data is only collected upon request or for specific customers.
- Remote operations are possible in the future (e.g., opening or closing the meter) or adjusting the power.
- There are no plans for a digital gas meter in the capital for now.
Why am I getting a smart meter?
You may have already received an e-mail or a letter from Sibelga offering the smart electricity meter, or perhaps it's already installed. But why exactly is the smart meter being widely rolled out?
1. More insight into your consumption
Since 2009, Europe has recommended its member states to introduce 'smart' metering systems so people can actively participate in the energy supply market.
With a smart meter, it's easier to track your energy consumption. If you additionally connect an energy consumption manager to your meter via the P1 port, you can get detailed consumption feedback and even control your household appliances.
This not only makes you more aware of how much energy you use but also when you consume it. Only then can consumers maximize the benefits of flexible tariff offerings (which will be available in the near future).
2. Ready for the power grids of tomorrow
Compared to the past, there have been significant changes in our electricity grids, both in terms of production and consumption.
Nowadays, there are solar panels, wind turbines, combined heat and power, electric vehicles, heat pumps, energy communities, and more.
Thanks to the smart meter, we as a network operator can precisely monitor how much energy is injected into the grid and where. But also how much energy is consumed and where. This is necessary to prevent shortages, overloads, and disruptions, making the energy supply more reliable.
This provides us with a more accurate picture of where exactly investments are needed. This saves us as a network operator, and therefore you as a customer, a lot of costs.