AMI 2.0 & 5G: The Future of Advanced Metering Infrastructure

Natacha Baroni, Head of Energy Product Marketing at T-Mobile for Business

The first generation of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) came into its own in the first decade of the 21st century. The U.S. Department of Energy described AMI as "an integrated system of smart meters, communications networks and data management systems that enables automated, two-way communication between a smart meter and a utility." Later systems included sensors that collect data like voltage, temperature, and current for insight into operations.

Today, AMI installations make up just over two-thirds of total meter, according to the American Public Power Association. But as the original smart meters reach end of life, utilities are tackling new challenges like distributed energy resources (DERs), decarbonization, and grid reliability.

The energy industry recognizes the need for 2nd generation smart meters, AMI 2.0, with advanced energy metering capabilities that upgrade how you and your customers monitor, manage, and control energy use.

T-Mobile can help meet your connectivity needs now and lay the foundation for the future.

5G & AMI

5G powers AMI 2.0.

Smart meters have evolved into edge-computing devices that enhance utility and consumer awareness of electricity generated and consumed. For real-time data transmission between meters and utilities, AMI 2.0 requires modern communication protocols like 5G with high bandwidth, low latency, exceptional resilience, and robust security. With 5G, data gets collected quickly and reliably, improving demand response, load balancing, and billing accuracy. Together, AMI 2.0 and 5G empower smart grids, DERs, and electric vehicle charging, boost security and safety, and enhance remote operations.

Infrastructure

AMI 2.0 bolsters smart grids.

The electricity consumption data that advanced metering systems collect can increase smart grid efficiency and reliability. For example, where data shows energy waste, the smart grid can adjust to distribute and use power more effectively. If some customers have atypical energy usage—either high or low—utilities can suggest conservation measures or check for line loss or tampering. And by monitoring power outages in real time, you can get customers back online quickly and easily.

DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES

AMI 2.0 supports DERs.

Your customers are increasingly using photovoltaics, battery storage, integrated electric vehicles (EVs), and smart appliances. The two-way flows of data and electricity from advanced metering infrastructure in smart grids helps utilities handle the resulting grid complexity and stress. Customers can also see the components of their electricity use—even how much individual smart appliances use, for example—letting them manage DERs as they please. New solutions may even apply artificial intelligence and machine learning to run systems as smoothly and smartly as possible.

Electric vehicles

AMI 2.0 balances the EV charging load.

Advances in EVs let them supply power to the grid—but you must first support the upsurge in EVs and chargers. For instance, utilities might choose to install and rent chargers to customers, reducing rates for those who allow you to control the charging schedule. Smart meters can provide the power usage data needed to understand loads and plan for distribution.

IT AND MAINTENANCE

AMI 2.0 promotes security and safety.

Using AMI 2.0 with 5G or a Private LTE can enhance privacy and security of your network. The strong 5G authorization and authentication protocols ensure devices and the network meet stringent cybersecurity standards. In addition, these advanced metering systems can identify live wires and conductors and temperature anomalies that indicate overheating panels or outages due to fires.

Improved operations

AMI 2.0 elevates remote operations.

AMI also eliminates the need to send workers and trucks to read remote meters or schedule readings inside homes. In addition, monitoring alerts you as soon as problems arise at a distant site, so you can mobilize to solve issues and protect your network and community.

T-Mobile can help.

Today’s smart meters can help your utility deliver the experiences customers expect. Contact T-Mobile for Business for further information and to lay the foundation for AMI 2.0 with 5G.

T-Mobile has America’s largest and fastest 5G network, imagined for tomorrow but ready to give you an edge today. At T-Mobile for Business, we’re focused on providing your business with connectivity solutions and the dedicated, exceptional service you need to help you stay ahead. T-Mobile experts will work with you from beginning to end to help you select a network solution and achieve your modernization goals. To learn more about how T-Mobile is fueling digital transformation for today’s energy companies, visit our energy industry page.

About the author:

Natacha Baroni is the Head of Energy Product Marketing at T-Mobile for Business, with over a decade of experience enabling customers in the energy industry improve efficiency, digital transformation, and safety. Specializing in marketing and product management, Natacha uses her experience to bring industry and customer perspectives into the development of business initiatives and go to market strategies to best meet industry needs.

Natacha holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee and an MBA from Olin Business School, Washington University in St. Louis.

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Advanced metering infrastructure 2.0 and 5G lay the foundation for the energy future.