ELECTRIFY THE FUTURE

We admit!

Although we seldom admit it, at Nexans we know that the electrification of the future requires more than cable development. An example of this is that Sweden is in the final stages of replacing all electricity meters with smart meters to meet modern energy demands and improve energy efficiency. We had a chat with Arif Mohammadi at ONE Nordic, who are traveling around Ulricehamn these weeks replacing electricity meters on behalf of Ulricehamns Energi, UEAB.

One Million Smart Meters

How many meters have you replaced?

Oh, I don't know, but together with my colleagues at ONE Nordic, we've replaced one million meters.

One million!?

Yes, we started on the west coast and have since travelled around most of Sweden. Now it's Ulricehamn's turn.

How many do you have left?

In Sweden, all electricity meters should be smart by the turn of 2024/2025. As for us, we expect to be done by October. So, we're almost at the finish line.

What's the deal with smart meters?

Smart meters enable real-time monitoring of electricity consumption, helping both households and businesses optimize their energy use and reduce costs. They also contribute to a more stable and sustainable energy supply by facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. The meters are prepared for, for example, time-of-use tariffs and solar panels as they measure in both directions.

That sounds... smart.

Yes, additionally, they are connected with their own SIM card, giving utility companies better tools to manage the grid and detect faults more quickly. This transition contributes to Sweden's goal of becoming more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Speaking of the environment, what happens to the old meters?

They are recycled, and if I remember correctly, 70% of the material can be reused.

Will you get a vacation once all the meters are replaced?

I don't know what the future holds once this assignment is completed. Most employers require experience, and unfortunately, replacing meters doesn't count.