Smart metering and systems for low-energy households: challenges, issues and benefits

As a critical step in the transition to a low-carbon economy, smart meters are being rolled out in large numbers throughout the world. To date, however, no systematic review of the development and implementation of smart meters have been published, so for maximizing the benefit of the benefit of smart meter, this study has been carried out to identify the main concepts and issues of promoting smart metering and related service system. Including key physical components and communication networks of smart meters compared to conventional meters, various policies to support smart meter roll-out and potential benefits to the participators. Challenges and issues involved in the deployment of smart meter infrastructure, such as technical, commercial and ethical debates, are also outlined. Results suggest that existing studies predominately focus on energy efficiency and demand management, while end-user engagement with smart metering systems, especially consumers’ social, economic and behavioural aspects, are rarely considered. Areas of future research should include consideration of privacy and security concerns of end-users, and the necessary learning/educating processes and behavioural change of end-users to maximize the benefit of smart metering systems.