Fotovoltaikos magistrantūros institutas

How does a bidirectional meter work, and how to read it?

A bidirectional meter is one of the most important devices for people using renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic installations. Its task is to accurately record the flow of energy in two directions – from the power grid to a given building and back to the grid when the installation produces more energy than is needed for current consumption. How does it work, and how can you read bidirectional meter codes?

Bidirectional meter - how it works?

How does a bidirectional meter work?

A bidirectional electricity meter is an advanced measuring device that monitors both the amount of energy drawn from the power grid and the energy fed back into it. In buildings with photovoltaic installations, there may be an energy surplus transferred to the public power grid. The bidirectional meter precisely records both flows, allowing settlement with the energy provider within a given billing period.

Compared to a traditional one-way meter, a bidirectional meter is more technologically advanced. Electronic electricity meters are equipped with a digital display that makes it easy to check the meter status. These devices also allow real-time energy consumption monitoring, which is particularly useful for buildings using single-zone or two-zone tariffs.

Advantages and functions of a bidirectional meter

A bidirectional meter offers many benefits, such as:

  • Precise energy monitoring – The meter records the amount of energy consumed and fed back, allowing for detailed control of electricity consumption.
  • Billing with the distribution network operator – Meter data serves as the basis for settlement with the energy provider, ensuring fair energy consumption billing.
  • Support for renewable energy sources – A bidirectional meter is essential for photovoltaic installations, as it allows monitoring of the amount of energy fed back and drawn from the grid.
  • Readability and convenience – The meter casing contains a digital display that shows all necessary data, such as total electricity consumption in a given billing period.

How to read a bidirectional electricity meter?

How to properly read a bidirectional meter? To read it correctly, pay attention to the digital display and the markings on the meter. The markings may vary depending on the model, so it is advisable to check the user manual or documentation provided by the distribution system operator.

Key reading parameters:

  1. Energy consumed (E1 or A+) – Indicates the amount of energy drawn from the grid.
  2. Energy fed back (E2 or A-) – Shows the amount of energy returned to the power grid.
  3. Current meter reading – Displays current energy consumption, expressed in kilowatthours (kWh).
  4. Active billing tariff name – Information on whether the meter operates in a single-zone or two-zone tariff mode.

How to read a bidirectional meter? Step by step

Wondering how to read a bidirectional meter? Follow these steps:

  1. Locate the button on the meter casing.
  2. Scroll through the display screens to obtain information on consumed, fed-back energy, and total electricity usage.
  3. Record the values displayed, especially if you need to report the meter status to the energy provider.

Bidirectional meter codes

Bidirectional meter codes are used to identify specific energy consumption parameters. The most commonly used markings include:

  • 1.8.0 – Total amount of energy consumed.
  • 2.8.0 – Total amount of energy fed back to the grid.
  • 9.8.0 – Total electricity consumption, including all billing periods.

Bidirectional meter codes are standard in most electricity meters. The markings on the meter are usually intuitive, but in case of doubt, it is best to consult the distribution network operator

Bidirectional meter - how to read it?

Remote reading meters and their role in energy systems

A remote reading meter, often referred to as a smart meter, is an essential element of modern energy systems. These devices enable automatic transmission of electricity consumption data to the distribution network operator, eliminating the need for manual readings.

Advantages of remote reading meters:

  1. Accurate data – Remote reading meters send precise consumption data to the operator, improving billing efficiency.
  2. Real-time monitoring – Operators have access to current data, allowing for quick responses in case of failures or grid overloads.
  3. Support for flexible tariffs – These devices allow the use of dynamic electricity tariffs, supporting energy consumption optimization.

Is a bidirectional meter mandatory?

A bidirectional meter is essential for systems utilizing renewable energy sources. According to renewable energy regulations (RES), all photovoltaic installations must be equipped with devices that enable precise measurement of energy consumed from and fed back into the grid.

This requirement ensures fair electricity billing in net metering systems. Thanks to bidirectional meters, it is possible to efficiently monitor energy flow, supporting the development of sustainable energy systems.

Bidirectional meters are a key element in supporting the energy transition. They enable precise monitoring of energy flows within networks, aiding renewable energy management, minimizing losses, and increasing overall system efficiency. Today, designing photovoltaic installations is quick and simple, with specialized applications available to help create accurate project plans, generate offers, and develop appropriate system visualizations.

Implementing such solutions is a step toward a sustainable energy future.

DUK

  1. How does a bidirectional meter work?
    A bidirectional meter measures the energy consumed from and fed back into the grid, allowing precise billing in photovoltaic systems.
  2. How to read data from a bidirectional meter?
    Data can be read from the digital display by switching between screens to check consumed, fed-back, and total energy usage.
  3. How does a bidirectional meter differ from a traditional one?
    A bidirectional meter monitors energy flows in both directions, whereas a traditional meter records only consumed energy.