Smart Grid: Singtel, EDMI to develop IoT-driven smart meters in Singapore

Singtel and global smart metering solutions provider EDMI Limited are collaborating to develop a smart electric metering infrastructure for Singapore.

The partners have successfully tested smart electric meters, powered by seamless connectivity on Singtel’s nationwide Cat-M1 cellular Internet of Things (IoT) network. The combination of smart meters with the IoT network enables the secure wireless transmission of real-time meter readings at regular intervals to the power grid. It also allows electricity suppliers to monitor electricity consumption and forecast demand more accurately.

“Giving electricity suppliers real-time data on electricity consumption allows them to optimise the distribution of electricity to certain areas and times of the day especially when demand is peaking,” said Andrew Lim, Business Group Managing Director at Singtel’s Group Enterprise. “The pairing of smart meters with our IoT network will give consumers more accurate meter readings and ultimately bring cost savings.”

This latest collaboration further cements the partnership between Singtel and EDMI. Singtel currently provides machine-to-machine connectivity for EDMI’s digital electric meters in Singapore. With the Energy Market Authority planning to roll out smart meters in the second half of 2018, the partners aim to offer their IoT-driven smart metering solutions across the city’s residential, commercial and industrial areas.

“We are happy to partner with Singtel to demonstrate the use of its cellular IoT network for a nationwide smart meter roll-out,” said How New Seng, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at EDMI. “As a leading smart metering solutions provider, EDMI is constantly on the lookout for cutting-edge technologies to bring greater value to our customers. With low-power footprint of the Cat-M1 technology, our smart metering solutions allow customers to reduce technical losses and work towards a greener power grid.”

The success of the smart metering trial with EDMI signals the readiness of Singtel’s IoT network to support the digital transformation of various Singapore-based enterprises. Singtel’s Cat-M1 IoT network went live in September 2017. It has been conducting trials with over 20 potential partners at an IoT innovation lab that was set up with Ericsson earlier in the year.

“Apart from the energy sector, Singtel’s IoT network can bring innovation and boost efficiencies across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, environmental services and technology.” Lim said. “The seamless connectivity and secure infrastructure provided by our IoT network heralds the evolution of telcos from service providers to business enablers.”