Tata Power-DDL Launches New NB-IoT Technology in Smart Meters

After successfully installing 2.3 Lakh smart meters on RF technology, power distribution company Tata Power Delhi Distribution (Tata Power-DDL) has introduced a unique Narrow Band-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology in smart meters.

The company claimed that this is the first installation of its kind in the country where smart meters have been installed on NB-IoT. The technology integration has been done involving meter manufacturers and NB-IoT service of Reliance-Jio Network.

NB-IoT is a new and cost effective technology in 4G and 5G spectrum with fast deployment quality. With this technology, the interference and obstruction arising due to public network congestion will not hamper the performance of smart meter anymore as data will smoothly flow through a dedicated channel.

It will also enable more number of remote meter readings possible thereby ensuring the safety of consumers during pandemic times.

Commenting on the technology, Ganesh Srinivasan, CEO of Tata Power-DDL said, “Tata Power-DDL is a forerunner in adopting and implementing latest technologies and solutions for its consumers. The introduction of new Narrow Band-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) in smart meters is one such revolutionising technology. It is 4G & 5G compatible, and will ensure smooth flow of data via a dedicated channel ironing out the interference and obstruction due to ever congested public network leading to seamless performance of smart meters. I believe, this unique technology integration will not only strengthen our credentials as a Utility of the Future but also take the Indian Smart Metering Mission to the next level.”

The interoperability has also been achieved at Meter Data Management level whereby meters from multiple makes and different technologies are collected, worked upon and analysed at the same platform.