For more than two decades, OWON has been designing and manufacturing advanced smart metering technologies. While SMETS1 smart meters marked an important step in the UK’s digital energy transition, today’s energy networks require more flexible, secure, and interoperable solutions. This guide provides a technical review of SMETS1 meters and explains how modern metering technologies now offer superior performance for energy suppliers and system integrators.
1. What Is SMETS1? A Technical Overview
SMETS1 (Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications – Phase 1) represents the first-generation smart meter deployed across the UK. These devices introduced several improvements over traditional meters, including:
- Automated meter readings to eliminate manual collection
- Basic consumption data presented to consumers
- Initial integration with early smart grid frameworks
However, SMETS1 was built on early-stage communication protocols that were later proven insufficient for long-term national deployment.
2. Technical Limitations of SMETS1 Smart Meters
Although SMETS1 meters helped digitalize the grid, they present key technical challenges:
2.1 Supplier Switching Issues
One of the most common problems:
When customers changed energy suppliers, SMETS1 meters often lost smart functionality, reverting to “dumb” mode until reconfigured—if reconfiguration was possible at all.
2.2 Limited Connectivity Options
SMETS1 relied on region-specific communication networks, creating:
- Coverage gaps
- Reliability issues
- Increased operational complexity for suppliers
2.3 Restricted Data Access
Early smart meters offered limited APIs and third-party integration, making it difficult for modern EMS platforms to collect and process data efficiently.
2.4 Outdated Security Standards
As cybersecurity threats evolved, SMETS1’s early-generation encryption and authentication methods became insufficient for today’s grid security requirements.
3. Modern Alternatives: Next-Generation Metering Technologies
Today’s smart meters eliminate SMETS1 limitations and deliver true future-proofing. Energy providers now benefit from:
3.1 Multi-Network Communication
Modern meters support multiple communication options, including:
- 4G/LTE cellular
- WiFi
- Zigbee or LoRaWAN
- Ethernet (optional)
This ensures stable connectivity in a wide range of environments.
3.2 Open API Architecture
Energy management platforms require real-time, bidirectional integrations.
Modern meters offer:
- RESTful APIs
- Cloud platform compatibility
- Secure data exchange mechanisms
3.3 Regular Firmware & Security Updates
Smart meters are now designed for:
- OTA firmware upgrades
- Continuous security patches
- Long-term maintenance cycles
3.4 Supplier-Agnostic Design
Newer smart meters maintain full functionality regardless of the customer’s energy supplier, solving the biggest SMETS1 pain point.
4. OWON’s Technical Approach to Modern Metering
OWON’s product roadmap focuses on high-performance and highly compatible metering solutions built for global deployment:
- Advanced communication modules (4G, WiFi, LoRaWAN, Zigbee)
- Interoperability with EMS/BMS platforms
- Enterprise-grade cybersecurity protocols
- Modular, scalable architecture for residential and commercial rollouts
Our engineering team also maintains deep understanding of legacy technologies, enabling smooth technology migration for utility customers.
5. Industry Transition Strategy: From SMETS1 to Modern Systems
For energy companies reducing dependence on SMETS1 devices, OWON recommends a structured migration plan:
✔ Phased Replacement Deployment
Avoids customer disruption while gradually modernizing the network.
✔ Backward Compatibility Planning
Ensures old and new meters can coexist during transition periods.
✔ Technical Training for Staff
Covers installation, configuration, and diagnostics for new metering types.
✔ Customer Communication Programs
Educates end-users on the benefits of upgraded meters, reducing support inquiries.
6. Future Trends Beyond SMETS1 Specifications
The smart metering industry is rapidly evolving. Upcoming trends include:
– Cloud-based analytics and AI-powered forecasting
– Real-time demand response integration
– Renewable energy and EV charging optimization
– Customizable software platforms for utilities and aggregators
These advancements highlight the need for modern, flexible metering systems rather than relying on early-generation technologies like SMETS1.
7. Technical Requirements When Evaluating SMETS1 Alternatives
Energy providers should prioritize:
- Network reliability across mixed communication environments
- Data security with end-to-end encryption
- Scalability for future customer growth
- Low maintenance requirements and remote management features
OWON’s metering solutions are engineered specifically around these criteria.
Conclusion
SMETS1 meters played an important role in the history of smart metering, but the industry has now moved toward more advanced, interoperable, and secure technologies.
With OWON’s upgraded metering solutions—designed for modern grid communication, renewable integration, and cloud analytics—utilities can confidently transition away from legacy systems and build a future-ready smart metering infrastructure.