Smart Meter Technology Transforms National Energy Management

By Shanika Abdullatib

MELAKA, Aug 3 (Bernama) -- Since gaining independence on Aug 31, 1957, Malaysia’s approach to electricity consumption and management has undergone significant transformation.

Aligned with the progressive vision for a multi-racial society under the theme of 'Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka' for the National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2024 celebrations, the smart meter installation project stands out as one of the most significant advancements in national energy management.

Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) senior vice-president Dr Raslan Ahmad said that since the smart meters were introduced in 2020, consumers have gained enhanced control over their electricity usage. This transition, driven by green technology, has been pivotal in the development of the national smart meter project.

“The adoption of smart meters across the country has expanded rapidly, with approximately 2.3 million units installed nationwide. This innovation offers substantial benefits, particularly in managing household energy expenses,” he told Bernama.

He added that in Melaka, nearly 380,000 smart meters have been installed, with Selangor leading with 1.8 million units, Kuala Lumpur with 1.3 million units, and Penang with 380,000 units.

“The success of smart meter technology in countries such as the United States, Sweden, China, and Italy is gradually influencing modernisation trends, leading to a growing acceptance of this technology among Malaysians,” he noted.

“To further extend the benefits of smart meters to users in Peninsular Malaysia, it is projected that 9.1 million households will transition to smart meters by 2026. In Melaka, there will be an increased adoption of alternative energy sources, contributing to overall energy savings,” he added.

Raslan explained that a smart meter is a device that records electricity consumption and automatically transmits this information to Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) via radio frequency waves for efficient monitoring and billing.

He highlighted that Malaysia is pioneering the implementation and expansion of smart meter technology in Southeast Asia, aligning with advancements in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and China.

The transformation also encompasses the billing process, eliminating the need for users to wait for paper bills. Instead, the smart meter records real-time electricity consumption and sends the data automatically through a secure network.

He said that the smart meter includes several components: a metering device for measuring electricity usage, a communication module for data exchange with the utility, data storage for analysis and billing, and a display unit for real-time information visible to users.

“It simplifies the process when users can access their electricity bills through the MyTNB application or portal. These advancements promote more efficient and environmentally friendly electricity use, while also supporting the digitalisation of the national energy monitoring system,” he concluded.

-- BERNAMA