Smart Meter
To properly utilize renewable energy in communities, the associated electricity grids must also be updated. While conventional power grids are designed to produce electricity via a small number of large plants, renewable energy grids require the ability to handle multiple small energy sources. Data-based adaptation is made possible by "smart grids": decentralized energy systems that utilize information and communications technology to operate.
The basis for this is modern smart meters (i.e. with digital displays), the use of which will be mandatory throughout Germany by 2032. Ideally, they should be intelligent and connected to the Internet for real-time data use. The meters are installed by the municipality or network operators in private, commercial or public buildings and measure energy consumption in detail. This allows it to be recorded both at an individual and network-wide level.