Innovative smart metering infrastructure making cities smart

Despite persisting challenges, the smart meters industry is crucial in enhancing grid efficiency and stability by optimising energy distribution, reducing congestion, and supporting renewable energy integration through real-time data analysis.

As India rapidly urbanises and the demand for efficient energy management intensifies, adopting innovative technologies like Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting (RFEH) and Wi-SUN presents promising solutions for modernising the nation’s smart metering infrastructure. In today’s scenario, these technologies offer the potential to address key challenges in deploying smart meters, which are integral components of smart grids, enabling real-time monitoring of energy consumption, optimising distribution, and enhancing grid stability. RFEH, which harnesses ambient radio frequency energy from telecom towers and other devices, offers a sustainable power source for low-energy IoT devices, including smart meters, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and minimising maintenance costs. Regulatory challenges hinder its widespread deployment, such as the need for spectrum clearance from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing.

In tandem with RFEH, Wi-SUN technology can significantly enhance the scalability and reliability of smart metering systems. By providing a robust mesh network architecture, Wi-SUN ensures continuous communication across urban areas, supporting the seamless transmission of data and enhancing connectivity. Combining RFEH with Wi-SUN can lead to more sustainable and self-sustaining smart metering networks, offering a scalable solution for urban India.

While integrating these technologies still faces technical and regulatory hurdles, industry leaders analyse the transformative potential of smart meters in driving efficient energy management, improving grid operations, and supporting the transition to a smart, sustainable energy future in India.

Adoption of Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting (RFEH) and Wi-SUN Technologies

Adopting Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting (RFEH) and Wi-SUN technologies in smart metering systems offers significant potential for urban areas in India, especially with the growing demand for efficient energy management. RFEH, which harnesses ambient RF energy, could reduce reliance on traditional power sources, making it an attractive solution for low-energy IoT devices like smart meters. In urban environments, where RF energy from telecom towers and other devices is abundant, RFEH could offer a sustainable power alternative, minimising maintenance and operational costs.

Ajoy Rajani, Executive Vice Chairman of CyanConnode India, highlights that while RFEH shows promise, its low energy yield might not suffice for the continuous power needs of smart meters. “Regulatory compliance is a critical factor,” Rajani adds, noting that RFEH deployment requires spectrum clearance from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing to avoid interference with other communication systems. He says that while RFEH is not yet viable for large-scale adoption of smart metering infrastructure in India, its integration could complement existing solutions as the technology matures. Meanwhile, Chintan Shah, Director at EnSave Energy, believes that combining RFEH with Wi-SUN technology can enhance the scalability and reliability of smart meters in urban India. RFEH reduces dependence on traditional power sources, enabling the widespread deployment of meters in dense urban environments. At the same time, Wi-SUN provides a mesh network architecture that ensures continuous communication across large areas. Shah states, “These technologies can transform India’s smart metering infrastructure by enhancing connectivity, reducing energy dependency, and enabling robust, sustainable networks.”

Additionally, Anil Rawal, MD & CEO of IntelliSmart, emphasises the role of Wi-SUN in providing near-real-time data collection, which is crucial for demand management in urban areas. “Wi-SUN is a robust communication protocol designed for large-scale IoT networks like smart meters,” Rawal states, adding that it ensures high granularity in monitoring energy usage and demand. However, Manoj Kumar Modi, Head of Operations at EESL, acknowledges the potential of RFEH in creating self-sustaining meters that eliminate battery dependence, facilitating large-scale deployment. However, he notes that RFEH does not directly benefit the smart meter, which is already connected to a power source. Instead, the technologies associated with network devices can enhance smart metering systems. He also points out that Wi-SUN, while promising, is still in its nascent stages and requires further maturation before widespread implementation.

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Energy Storage Systems

Smart meters are essential components of modern smart grids, providing real-time data on energy consumption that helps utilities optimise energy distribution and reduce grid congestion. Ajoy Rajani from Cyanconnode emphasises, “Smart meters are the basic building blocks and integral to the functioning of smart grids, acting as the primary interface between consumers and utilities.” These meters collect consumption data and communicate with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), billing systems, and energy storage systems, making energy distribution smarter and more efficient. Utilities gain deeper insights into consumption patterns by integrating smart meters with AMI, enabling better demand forecasting and grid management. Rajani explains, “By analysing this data, utilities can forecast demand more accurately, optimise energy distribution, and reduce peak load stress on the grid.” This ability to manage peak demand reduces grid congestion and enhances overall grid stability. Furthermore, when linked with energy storage systems, smart meters help balance supply and demand. Excess energy is stored and used during peak periods during off-peak hours, contributing to a more stable grid and supporting renewable energy integration.

Moreover, Chintan Shah from EnSave Energy highlights how AMI allows utilities to adjust energy supply based on real-time data: “For example, during peak hours, utilities can incentivise reduced consumption to alleviate grid congestion.” Smart meters also enable time-of-use pricing, encouraging consumers to shift energy use to off-peak times, further balancing the grid. Additionally, Manoj Kumar Modi from EESL underscores the importance of smart meters in optimising energy use through integration with storage systems. He opines, “Smart meters help optimise energy use, storing excess power during low demand and discharging it during peak times.” This coordination reduces grid congestion and improves energy efficiency. Adding on the expert opinions , Anil Rawal from IntelliSmart states that smart meters communicate consumption patterns to energy storage systems, allowing for informed decisions on when to store or release energy. “Smart meters help storage systems determine the optimal time to release energy during peak demand periods. This data-driven approach optimises grid operations, minimises transmission losses, and reduces reliance on costly peaking plants, offering significant cost savings,” he says.

Real-Time Energy Monitoring

Real-time energy monitoring is becoming essential for efficient energy management, especially as demand grows in smart cities. Manoj Kumar Modi from EESL, underscores the importance of the Smart Meter National Programme in smart city energy management. “EESL, in partnership with Intellismart, is implementing a smart metering programme to enhance billing and collection efficiencies across several states,” Modi notes. EESL has installed over 40 lakh smart meters in various regions, contributing to the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, which enhances operational efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, Anil Rawal from IntelliSmart highlights the benefits of smart meters’ near-instantaneous data transmission. “Smart meters allow utilities to implement dynamic pricing, adjusting electricity costs based on actual demand,” says Rawal. This real-time monitoring enables consumers to track energy usage, adjust behaviours, and invest in energy-efficient appliances to reduce costs.

However, Ajoy Rajani from CyanConnode India emphasises the role of advanced Omnimesh communication solutions in enabling smart meters to deliver real-time consumption insights. “Our Omnimesh platform ensures reliable and seamless data transmission, allowing utilities to actively monitor energy usage, detect anomalies, and respond promptly to changing demand patterns,” says Rajani. This capability supports dynamic load balancing, improving energy distribution and preventing overloading. Taking forward the expert opinion, Chintan Shah from EnSave Energy analyses that smart meters offer continuous monitoring by measuring electricity usage at granular intervals, such as every 15 minutes. “Real-time data is transmitted to utilities and consumers, enabling immediate analysis and response,” Shah explains. This instant feedback allows utilities to adjust energy generation or distribution based on consumption trends and supports demand-response programmes during peak periods. Additionally, consumers can access their energy usage via apps or web portals, empowering them to reduce consumption by adjusting their habits or automating energy-saving practices.

Challenges and Opportunities

Experts say the key challenge is interoperability, as differing standards and technologies across the grid can hinder seamless communication among smart meters and legacy systems. Rajani from CyanConnode India highlights, “Ensuring seamless communication among diverse meter manufacturers and technologies requires adherence to open standards and robust testing protocols.” Chintan Shah from EnSave Energy emphasises that proprietary technologies can limit device integration, raising compatibility concerns. The lack of uniform communication protocols complicates large-scale deployment, and cybersecurity threats loom large. As Shah notes, “The integration of smart meters into the grid increases the attack surface, making systems vulnerable to hacking, ransomware, or tampering.” Cybersecurity is a critical concern, with smart meters handling sensitive data. Both Rajani and Modi stress the importance of data protection. Rajani asserts, “Cybersecurity awareness drives demand for advanced solutions like CyanConnode’s multi-layered security framework.” Similarly, Manoj Kumar Modi from EESL  calls for robust encryption and regular audits to safeguard consumer trust. IoT integration also presents challenges. Deploying IoT-enabled smart meters requires reliable, low-latency communication, especially in rural areas where network infrastructure is often lacking. Shah says, “IoT devices require consistent power, posing challenges in areas with unreliable electricity.” Additionally, Modi notes that smart grid integration relies on efficient data exchange, which requires advanced infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, there are notable opportunities. The Indian government’s regulatory push, including the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), is driving the creation of uniform communication protocols, enabling better interoperability. As Shah states, “Partnerships between utilities, technology providers, and startups can foster innovative, interoperable solutions.” The rise of 5G networks and AI-based cybersecurity tools further enhances IoT integration and smart meter communication, making smart grids more efficient and secure. Anil Rawal from IntelliSmart emphasises that clear standards like the Standard Bidding Document (SBD), promoting hardware independence, are crucial for system-wide interoperability. As India moves towards smarter, more efficient energy management, collaboration, standardisation, and investment in infrastructure will be key to overcoming these challenges and realising the full potential of smart metering systems. 

After this analysis, integrating Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting (RFEH) and Wi-SUN technologies into smart metering infrastructure offers promising benefits, including reduced energy dependency and enhanced connectivity. While RFEH shows potential for sustainable power, its scalability remains limited, with regulatory and energy yield challenges. Wi-SUN, on the other hand, can transform smart metering systems by improving communication across large areas. However, interoperability, cybersecurity, and IoT integration remain significant hurdles. By addressing these challenges through collaboration, standardisation, and investment, India can unlock the full potential of smart meters, driving efficiency, sustainability, and smarter energy management in smart cities.