Project to replace traditional gas meters
OBJECTIVE: To support the energy transition in the gas sector; to develop the digitalisation of bell-type gas meters as a means of improving the experience of gas customers in Poland and digitising measurement data.
Project context
The largest gas distribution system operator in Poland – Polska Spółka Gazownictwa – has commenced a project to replace gas meters for customers in tariff group 3. The main challenge is to replace 1.38 million traditional bellows-type gas meters with smart gas meters featuring remote reading capabilities. The task requires the coordination of a large number of external contractors (equipment suppliers, remote reading systems providers, mobile network operators, etc.) within a short timeframe.
The project envisages the replacement of meters for individual customers from August 2025 to December 2026; therefore, deliveries of gas meters should be completed by September 2026.
It is currently one of the largest projects of its kind in Europe.
Key challenges
- Scale and pace of implementation – replacing 1.38 million gas meters in Poland within a short timeframe
- Logistics coordination – cooperation between numerous contractors and suppliers, the need to synchronise activities
- Data security – application of secure technology, with encryption and confidentiality of transmitted information
- Technology and infrastructure – the application of new communication technology (narrowband Internet of Things) and its smooth operation across the whole country
Benefits of the project
- National energy transition – the project is co-financed under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), aligning with the strategic goals of digitalisation and infrastructure resilience
- Convenience for customers – automation and reduced operating costs through the elimination of collection visits
- Online access to gas consumption data for both customers and suppliers
- Accurate billing – readings based on actual consumption rather than forecasts and estimates – transparency of billing
- Improved safety – smart gas meters can detect gas leaks more quickly and alert users to potential hazards
Technological solution: supply of iSMART2 gas meters using narrowband Internet of Things (IoT) communication technology
iSMART2 gas meters are the latest generation of smart gas meters, combining reliable mechanical gas consumption measurement with an innovative electronic module that serves as the device’s ‘heart’ and ‘brain’.
- Key features of iSMART2 include:
- Encrypted, bidirectional communication
- Intuitive graphical interface
- Precise measurements of actual gas consumption
- Archiving of measurement data and events
- Remote software updates
- Reduced operating costs by eliminating collection visits
- Enables informed management of gas consumption
Innovation and strategies
1. Polish production and development
2. Support for domestic industry
3. Safety and the environment
It should be emphasised that the products were designed by Polish engineers in cooperation with domestic technology partners, using components sourced from European suppliers. The design, development and production of iSMART2 are carried out in line with the objectives of supporting technological independence, developing domestic industry and building resilient critical infrastructure. The project is firmly aligned with a strategy aimed at implementing modern, consumer-friendly technological solutions and ensuring safety and comfort for users through the use of modern technologies, whilst respecting the natural environment.
Summary
The iSMART2 gas meter replacement project is a comprehensive initiative that not only modernises the metering infrastructure but also supports digitalisation, security and the development of the domestic technology industry. The implementation of modern, secure and efficient devices will enable better management of gas consumption, improve the quality of services for customers and contribute to Poland’s energy transition goals.