Metered data is the real value of an effective metering and submetering plan. Metering data provides information about how much electricity, water, thermal energy, or gas has been used in a certain period of time. Metered data can be obtained from different sources such as the utility company, meters installed on main feeders on-premises, or remote-reading sub-meters.

Some of the most common uses of metering data include:

Billing

Accurate and timely billing is the most common application of metered and sub-metered data. Instead of using usage estimates based on occupancy or square footage, tenants and unit owners receive accurate readings of their water, electric, thermal energy, and/or gas consumption. Tenants who have access to accurate consumption readings are likely to be more responsible and accountable for how they use resources - which encourages more savings and positive changes in energy usage habits. The overall result is a satisfying living experience for all the stakeholders and more efficient property. 

Validation and Reporting

Validation and reporting is another essential use of metered data. Utility providers rely on metering data to validate and ensure no errors are made in billing which can result in large dollar value corrections. It also helps to comply with federal and state regulations that may require companies to report on their energy usage.

Measure and Target or Measure and Verification can also be considered in the validation portion, in these cases, the purpose is to meet LEED Standards and reduce the building carbon footprint in a consistent manner.

Time-of-Use Pricing

Dynamic pricing rates were developed and implemented by utilities to assist in the control of supply and demand for resources and to maximize the use of assets.

Time of Use (TOU) metering adds an extra layer on top of metering by applying different rates based on the time of the day when a user consumes energy. The idea behind TOU metering is to incentivize consumers to shift their usage habits and divert their energy usage to off-peak hours. For example, by increasing the price during peak consumption hours that is when power is in high demand, and offering a much lower or attractive rate when power is not in high demand, consumers are motivated to consume energy during the low rate periods switching on heavy load appliances, like dishwashers, air conditioners, heaters, freezers, and laundry equipment; and conserve during the high rate periods. 

Utilities and distribution companies benefit by proroguing the need to upgrade feeders, equipment or purchasing energy on the spot market to meet the demand while increasing the use of their assets during low demand and sharing that economic benefit with the customer.

Whatever the application, using accurate meters, and a system that integrates the reading of all the equipment into a single portal or that integrates seamlessly with the building automation system is key to a successful implementation.