Feed-In Meter
A feed-in meter is an electronic measuring device used in photovoltaic systems (PV systems) to record the amount of electricity fed into the public grid by the system. This meter is an essential component of any PV system connected to the grid and allows for accurate billing of the feed-in compensation.
Functionality:
The feed-in meter is installed between the PV system and the power grid. It measures the flow of electricity in both directions: the electricity generated by the system that is fed into the grid, as well as the electricity drawn from the grid, for example, during nighttime or periods of increased self-consumption. The measured data is typically recorded electronically and can be read out via various interfaces.
Purpose:
- Billing of feed-in compensation: The measured feed-in amount forms the basis for calculating the compensation that the system operator receives for the electricity fed into the grid. Compensation rates are usually set by the government and may change over time.
- Grid balancing: The data from feed-in meters is of great importance to grid operators for managing the feed-in of electricity from renewable energy sources into the power grid and ensuring a stable grid frequency.
- Self-consumption measurement: In addition to feed-in measurement, modern feed-in meters also allow for accurate tracking of self-consumption, i.e., the electricity that is used directly within the property.
Technical aspects:
- Measurement accuracy: Feed-in meters are subject to strict legal regulations regarding their measurement accuracy to ensure fair billing.
- Communication: Modern feed-in meters are equipped with various communication interfaces (e.g., M-Bus, WLAN) to transmit the measurement data to the grid operator or an energy management system.
- Smart metering systems: As part of the energy transition, smart metering systems are increasingly being used, enabling even more detailed tracking and control of energy flow.
Relevant keywords: Photovoltaics, PV System, Power Grid, Feed-in Compensation, Renewable Energy, Grid Operator, Self-Consumption, M-Bus, Smart Meter