THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS OF SMART METER TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

This article examines the theoretical foundations, structure, operating principles, communication capabilities, and application prospects of smart meter technologies in the context of the digitalization and automation of modern power systems. The primary objective of the study is to systematize the role of smart meters in electricity consumption measurement, monitoring, data processing, and energy management, and to determine their significance in the development of smart grids. The article analyzes the main functional modules of smart meters, including the measurement, processing, memory, communication, and user interface modules, and describes the structure and operation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). The characteristics and application potential of communication technologies such as PLC, GSM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NB-IoT are also considered. The study identifies the principal advantages of smart meters, including real-time monitoring, bidirectional communication, remote meter reading and control, reduction of energy losses, demand-response management, and optimization of consumer behavior. At the same time, key challenges associated with their implementation are examined, including cybersecurity, data privacy, communication reliability, initial investment costs, standardization, and interoperability. The findings indicate that the integration of smart meters with Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence technologies creates significant opportunities for improving energy efficiency, enhancing grid reliability, and developing sustainable digital energy systems.