Brussels, 15 October 2009 – The European Commission’s recommendations on the increased use of intelligent technologies in its attempts to reduce the impact of climate change, are applauded by the European Smart Metering Industry Group (ESMIG). In particular the specific role outlined for Smart Metering will have a real impact on the drive towards an energy efficient and low carbon future.
As part of the recommendations the Commission estimates that with Smart Metering, consumers could reduce energy consumption by 10 percent, which is in line with most studies, which have shown savings of between 5-15 percent. The Commission asks EU member states to agree on a ‘common specification for Smart Metering’ by the end of 2010, and by the end of 2012 to have a time table for the rollout of Smart Metering in European households.
ESMIG is working towards the delivery of smart interoperable metering systems in the same timescales as outlined in the Commission’s plans. Through its relationship with a number of European partners ESMIG can help to achieve the objective of ‘common specification for Smart Metering’ across Europe, but believes that this needs to provide some flexibility to account for differing climatic, market and customer requirements.
“The recommendations emphasizing the role of ICT in energy efficiency are very positive for European consumers in the future. The use of Smart Metering systems with other ICT and communications in homes and businesses will allow energy users more control over their use of energy. ESMIG is working with a number of partners in standardisation, and communications to deliver the right solutions for the utilities and consumers in Europe” commented ESMIG Managing Director, Dr Howard Porter.

Notes for Editors:
About ESMIG
The European Smart Metering Industry Group (ESMIG) provides knowledge and expertise on Smart Metering and related communications at a European level. ESMIG’s members are the leading companies in the European Smart Metering market: meter manufacturers, IT companies and system integrators.
Member companies cover all aspects of Smart Metering, including electricity, gas, water, and heat measurement. ESMIG membership represents the entire value chain from meter manufacturing, software, installation, consulting, to communications, data management and system integration.
By giving support to the European Union and its Member States as well as through co-operation and partnerships with relevant stakeholders, the Industry Group aims to assist in the development of national and European-wide introduction, rollout and management of Smart Metering solutions.
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For further information contact:
Dr. Howard Porter, Managing Director, ESMIG
Klaus-Dieter Axt, Operations Director, ESMIG
Phone: +32 2 7068257, Fax: +32 2 7068253
Email: secretariat@esmig.eu

ESMIG - European Smart Metering Industry Group
Boulevard A. Reyers 80, 1030 Brussels, Belgium
www.esmig.eu