What is a smart meter?
A smart meter and display are compulsory requirements associated with the installation of a Photovoltaic (PV) system. A smart meter generally refers to a meter which records when electricity is used rather than just the total amount each quarter. The meters installed by an electricity company at the school metering board for billing purposes do not count as PV system smart meters in this instance. A smart meter and display must be linked to the PV system and measure and display the real-time data of electricity consumed and generated. Possible display options include: • A scrolling LED display. • A large electronic sign. • A computer screen and/or web page. • An LCD screen (various sizes and models available). Connection to wide-screen televisions or large plasma screens is not encouraged due to the energy consumption of these appliances. These displays are often linked to the PV system inverter via a “web link” (or “comms”) box, which is an eligible item for funding. Some of the inver
