Re: energy in UK

On 4/17/2025 7:38 AM, Liz Tuddenham wrote:

Don Y <blockedofcourse@foo.invalid> wrote:
 

On 4/17/2025 4:36 AM, Liz Tuddenham wrote:

Don Y <blockedofcourse@foo.invalid> wrote:
>
[...]

I've heard rumors that some can also be used to disconnect power
(for non-payment) but think that would be hard in the volume
typically set aside for the meter (?)

>
In the UK, that appeared to be the main reason the electricity compaines
rushed to install them; anyone who didn't pay or disputed their bill
could be threatened with being cut off without any necessity to gain
access to the premises.  Rather late in the day, this was made illegal
and the drive to fit 'smart' meters suddenly vanished.

>
What are they using to disconnect the (typical) two 100A legs?

 Most UK domestic premises are on single-phase 240v, with the neutral
earthed at the sub-station.  This means there is only one leg to
disconnect, so a latching relay with one set of 100A contacts is
sufficient.  (I remember seeing a video of 'Big Clive" dismantling one -
it may still be on YouTube somewhere.)

I suspect even a simple contactor would be a challenge to cram in the
bubble alongside the electronics.

Here, there is value in having solid state metering.  It allows
different monitoring schemes to be implemented without requiring a
completely different mechanical metering system.  Eliminates
the meter reader.  Provides dynamic load monitoring at the customer
level.  Remote fault detection.  etc.

 Most of which benefits the supplier, not the consumer.

Of course!  Our electronic water meters include the ability to detect
likely leaks (i.e., if water runs continuously then it is likely a sign
of a leaking toilet fixture, etc.).
But, this isn't used to alert the homeowner to a reparable problem.
Rather, you get a "big bill" and start looking to see "Why?"
OTOH, if on a ToU rate, it would be relatively easy to SHOW the
homeowner his current load so he could adjust his behaviors;
"How bad is it to run the pump for the swimming pool?  What
about the oven?"