AMR vs Smart Meters: What's the Difference?

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Many businesses have smart meters or AMR meters, but do you know what the difference is between them? We asked our experts at Valda Energy to help shed light on what each does differently to a standard meter.

What is an AMR meter?

An AMR, also known as an Automated Meter Reader device, securely transmits meter reads from the customer premises and its energy supplier. This only goes one way so the supplier.

The energy supplier will only receive meter reads once a month, so you do not have to submit meter reads manually. 

Unlike a standard meter, an AMR meter also:

• Sends meter reads to your energy supplier, meaning you don’t have to.
• Has improved security.
• Provides more accurate usage data and helps your suppliers forecast your future energy usage.
• Allow you to better see your energy usage and make changes to become more energy efficient.

What is a smart meter?

Smart meters are the newer generation of gas and electricity meters that automatically send meter reads on a half-hourly basis. These are known as SMETS (Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications). There are several different types of smart meters, the latest versions of these meters are known as SMETS2.

Unlike an AMR meter, smart meters have two-way communication between the energy supplier and the customer. They also share information if the meter has been potentially tampered with.

As smart meters can communicate two-way standards through a purpose-built network they follow more strict regulations and standards on the handling of consumer data, ensuring compliance with data protection laws such as the GDPR.

Unlike a standard meter, a smart meter also:

• Sends meter reads to your energy supplier via a dedicated and secure data network, meaning you don’t have to.
• Provides more accurate usage data and makes it easier for suppliers to forecast future consumption.
• Allows you to monitor daily energy usage and help identify where and when energy is being used most.
• Can help you become more aware of your energy consumption during various business activities, enabling you to manage gas and electricity usage more effectively and make changes.

Smart meters certainly hold immense potential for businesses, offering a range of benefits including cost savings, highlighting efficiency improvements, and supporting environmental sustainability. You can find out more benefits on our ‘Smart Meter Benefits’ page.