In Poland, the mandatory replacement of electricity meters is underway. Get ready for big changes

In 2021, changes to the Energy Law were introduced in Poland, aimed at implementing a smart metering system. The new regulations aim to modernize energy networks by installing smart meters with remote data reading function for private customers. Such devices automatically send information about energy consumption to the headquarters of energy companies, eliminating the need for visits by collectors and the need to send the meter readings yourself.

Replacing meters throughout Poland

New meters can help consumers reduce energy consumption by up to 10 percent, which translates into lower electricity bills. Consumers will be able to better monitor the impact of individual home appliances on energy consumption, enabling them to better manage their energy consumption.

A convenient solution is that smart meters allow for ongoing monitoring of energy consumption using mobile applications or online platforms. Thanks to remote data reading, consumers will not have to write down the meter reading themselves or accept collectors.

Stages of replacing meters

The meter replacement process has been divided into four stages, with the goal of replacing approximately 17 million meters by 2028. In the first one (by the end of 2025), 25% of smart meters should be installed. recipients. In the second stage, by 2027, this number is to increase to 65%. By the end of 2028, 80% of households should have smart meters. recipients. The entire process is scheduled to be completed in 2031.

So far, Energa has replaced over 2 million meters out of 3.3 million, PGE Dystrybucja has replaced 22.3%. total meters, and Stoen Operator replaced over 227 thousand counters.

How much does it cost to replace a meter?

Replacing the meter is usually free of charge, but in the case of earlier installation at the customer's request, the cost is approximately PLN 300. For example, at PGE, the cost of installation and launch of remote data transmission is PLN 322 net (PLN 396.06 gross) for a 1-phase meter and PLN 342 net (PLN 420.66 gross) for a 3-phase meter.

The Ministry of Climate estimates that the cost of purchasing and installing new meters will be approximately PLN 9 billion, which will be covered by energy companies. The entire process was spread over several years so that companies would be able to finance it. However, it is estimated that over 15 years this investment will bring savings of PLN 11.3 billion, which will result, among others, from: due to the lack of need to employ people to read meters in the field.

Meters are replaced by operators' installers or authorized employees of external companies, and the entire process takes from 15 to 40 minutes. The new meter is installed in place of the old one, and the installation ends with the installation of seals and preparation of documentation. It is worth remembering that each customer is obliged to provide access to the room where the meter is located. After the exchange, there is no need to conclude a new contract.

Cybersecurity concerns

The National Chamber of Commerce for Electronics and Telecommunications draws attention to the insufficient requirements for meters installed in homes and institutions. The industry is calling for the introduction of cybersecurity criteria because current meters often do not meet any security standards and come from uncertified Asian companies.

KIGEiT warns that the lack of certified units testing meters for digital security poses a serious threat. There are also concerns about the collection of energy use data, which can provide information about household activity, raising questions about privacy.