What is a smart electricity meter?
The term ‘smart meter’ is used to describe an advanced electricity meter that is capable of two-way communication. This communication can be through a number of different methods, such as radio or cellular telecommunications network. Smart meters are programmable and have more functionality than a conventional meter. Internationally, smart meters are also referred to as ‘advanced meters’. Some argue that a smart meter needs to be capable of communicating with and controlling appliances in the home, but this functionality may also be provided via other channels (for example, mobile phones and the internet). • 2. Why does the Commission conclude the current roll out of smart meters is being carried out within an acceptable timeframe? Retailers have plans in place under which smart meters will be installed at approximately 80 per cent of New Zealand’s almost 2 million meter installations by the end of 2013. Although all retailers are not currently planning to install smart meters at all m
