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Several electricity network operators currently use frequency space in the 450-470 MHz PAMR band to wirelessly read millions of smart meters. Frequency space is limited, so a constant trade-off needs to be made between different forms of spectrum use.
The frequency license for the network operators has recently been extended until 17 November 2024. For the legally required large-scale rollout of smart meters, it is crucial that the already installed and yet to be installed meters can continue to function after this date. The extension included provisions to ensure the continuity of these smart meters in case of a future redistribution of frequency space. Additionally, an examination will be carried out on how to achieve this in a way that optimally uses the frequency space, allows market parties to make use of it, and have a chance to acquire it.
The research aims to provide insights into how the continuity of these smart meters can be safeguarded. The research report will describe the options for this. The researchers will primarily focus on the technical possibilities - frequency use and network technology - and where relevant, consider other aspects such as business-economic and legal factors. The report will be a key input for a policy intention and will be made public by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZK) in due course.
This research builds on the (market) research carried out by Dialogic together with the TU/e in 2016, which can be accessed at the PAMR-band research.
