Intelligent meters not smart enough

The CNMC (National Commission for Markets and Competition) has stated that the so called “intelligent meters” are not complete enough and they should give the consumer more information.

They consider it essential that the industry should have specific guidelines about which information should be given and there should also be awareness campaigns to inform the consumer on how they work.

In Spain there are eight million intelligent meters already installed but they can’t separate billing by the hour nor can they manage the requests made of them.

In a report published by the CNMC they are requesting that the electricity companies find some way to improve the information that the meter gives the consumer.

They want the meters to either connect to a web page or have an “add on” gadget which would allow for more exchange of information with the central provider; in this way they would then actually be “intelligent” rather than just being called intelligent.

What they are asking for is only what they were promised when the electricity providers first introduced them: they should bill by the hour and give the consumer information on what type of energy they are currently consuming giving them the option of changing providers.

The Ministry of Industry has also voiced its concern over the lack of information given as opposed to that promised. The electricity companies have, as yet, not responded.