Siemens launches smart grid solution based on AMIS system

In the course of numerous projects Siemens has to date delivered more than 100,000 of these smart meters.

According to a release, for the expansion of smart grids Siemens Infrastructure & Cities has developed a smart grid solution based on its AMIS system, which covers both smart metering and the automation of distribution networks. In addition, Siemens has for the first time integrated in this application the energy automation, power quality and multimedia functions.

For example, the power snapshot analysis is the first smart grid application worldwide, which provides synchronous grid information via AMIS smart meters. Power quality data supplements this information, with the aid of which grid stability and supply security can be enhanced. Open interfaces for tablet computers or smart phones, via which consumption and energy data can be graphically displayed, are also available.

“Siemens is one of the few companies worldwide that is capable of offering such comprehensive one-stop solutions,” said Jan Mrosik, CEO of the Smart Grid Division of Siemens Infrastructure & Cities. The solution essentially comprises a Siemens AMIS automated metering and information system and an Energy IP meter data management system. It was developed as the future-proof basis for smart grid applications in order to be able to manage the increasing feed-in of fluctuating renewables-based power into power supply networks.

The core tasks include remote reading of energy and grid data and the management of all meters in a supply area. Gas and water meters can also communicate bi-directionally within the supply area via the AMIS smart grid meters. In the course of numerous projects Siemens has to date delivered more than 100,000 of these smart meters.

As a first smart grid application worldwide the power snapshot analysis of the Siemens solution based on AMIS smart meters supplies synchronous grid information from the low-voltage level. The accumulated data serve as a basis for grid planning and can be used to estimate investment costs for the expansion of grid infrastructure. Power quality data, which are input via the data concentrators of the smart grid system, additionally supplement the amount of data. All this data is required to enhance grid stability and thus also supply security.

The scope of functions of the smart grid solution also includes the integration of AMIS load switching devices into a higher-level control system. The enables, for example, specific load groups such as heat pumps or electric heating systems to be taken off line for a short period of time as necessary via the grid control system without forfeiting any convenience in order to compensate power consumption peaks, for example.

Siemens offers multimedia functions via open interfaces of the AMIS system for tablet computers and smart phones: Via graphics and presentation of energy value equivalents such as amounts in euros or CO2 emissions it is possible to provide power consumers with information on their consumption behavior. When systems like photovoltaic plants are used, they receive information on the generated output of their installations.

The savings potential indicated by the presentation of AMIS meter data along the time axis is, for example, helpful in the detection of high standby power consumption. The inclusion of energy data provided by the AMIS meters also enables new home automation applications. For example, radio switches in home automation systems can be switched automatically as a function of power data. Local demand-side management can thus be implemented for power consumers in interaction with smart energy tariffs.