Advanced Metering Infrastructure FAQs: Tackling the Top AMI Concerns

Introduction:

As technology continues to develop, utilities are taking advantage to create more reliable, safe, and sustainable networks. Advanced metering infrastructure, also called AMI, is a fixed network system that enables two-way communication between utilities and their customers. AMI allows for utilities to track energy usage in real-time by capturing, analyzing, and transmitting live data. In this blog we consider some of the most frequently asked questions about AMI to provide a better understanding of the network.

1. How does AMI work and which utilities can utilize it?

Sensus’ FlexNet AMI uses a dedicated radio frequency network to allow for two-way communication between utilities and their smart meter endpoints. The point-to-multipoint network covers a designated range of Smart meters that connect to a local radio frequency tower, or “base station”. As the smart meters gather and transmit usage data, the base station then sends the data to a data management system. From there, the data is analyzed and reported back to the utility. FlexNet AMI can be utilized for water, gas, and electric metering networks.

Read more about the specifics of FlexNet AMI here. 

2. How can a utility company adopt AMI technology?

In order for a utility to successfully adopt and deploy AMI technology into their network, we encourage them to explore these key considerations:

• Assemble a cross-functional planning team ― this team will include experts in operations and information technology, metrology, field operations, customer service, and other essential areas of the business.
• Decide which meters to augment vs replace ― when determining the scope of the AMI deployment, meters should be evaluated to understand whether they are compatible with the new technology or can be retrofitted/augmented to become compatible. If meters are not compatible, they would likely need to be replaced.
• Choose a communication network ― consider the level of resources and location required for either a fixed network, or a mesh network. Each provide their own benefits, though the infrastructure requirements differ between them.
• Plan out software and data integrations ― the implications for AMI for utilities center around data storage, management, analytics, and cybersecurity. Ensuring these aspects are well enough established before AMI deployment is essential.
• Learn from others’ AMI deployment mistakes ― we compiled key tips for AMI deployment from utilities that adopted the technology, and we believe that sharing the successes and challenges will allow for other utilities to seamlessly adopt and deploy their own networks. Learn more about specific steps that utilities can take to adopt AMI here.

3. What are the main challenges to adopting AMI?

Some of the biggest challenges to implementing an AMI system are the cost requirements for large-scale projects, managing meter inventory, and ensuring training and education of operators is up to par. 

The cost of the materials, as well as implementing a project management team must be considered when scoping the option of AMI. Opportunities for government or grant funding can help alleviate some of the cost burden.

When deploying AMI technology, meters that are incompatible will need to be either augmented or replaced. Categorizing meters and conducting the updates will require both time and manpower. 

Lastly, the training and education of operators regarding AMI technology must be comprehensive. For operators and technicians to successfully run and troubleshoot the technology when needed, they must have the appropriate training.

4. Can a utility adopt a hybrid-AMI system?

Yes, it is possible for utilities to adopt AMI technology and slowly grow their smart system over time. Whether a utility has manual walk-by systems or advanced meter reading (AMR) systems in place, they can gradually replace endpoints and begin transitioning to an AMI system. 

Hybrid-AMI systems could also help utilities that are facing the previously mentioned challenges when deploying AMI. By updating their system over time, rather than all at once, the utility can manage the overhead cost and manpower required of the deployment. Developing a hybrid-AMI system will also help to identify the compatible vs. replaceable meter endpoints over time, rather than scrapping a large amount of meters in one period. Additionally, rolling out AMI trainings to the operators as the system is updated over time will ensure the workforce is prepared to successfully utilize the technology during full deployment.

Conclusion:

As gas utilities consider the adoption and deployment of AMI technology, several challenges and questions arise. Using AMI technology that is proven to be reliable, manageable, and scalable will help alleviate many of these challenges. It is important to face these challenges head on with an experienced AMI partner to create a network that leverages efficiency, safety, and actionable data.