To measure the total quantity of electric energy utilized, an electricity meter is installed in residential and commercial properties. As per the requirements, a single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase metering is installed. An electric meter is a must to generate bills for a particular billing cycle by measuring the energy used during that cycle (i.e. Meter reading for total electrical units consumed). Kilowatt-hour [kWh] is a widely used unit of measurement.
Single Phase: A single-phase energy meter is very cost-effective and flexible and is ideal for residential properties. However, if you have many electrical appliances including more than one air conditioner, you may need a two-phase or three-phase metering as per the required energy consumption level.
Three Phase: When you have three related voltage sources that supply the same load, it is known as three-phase metering. It is a vital development over single-phase or two-phase as the three voltages or current waves follow each other? cycle apart, and when you total the currents collectively at any moment, you will discover that they are completely in equilibrium.
Solar – Gross, Net, Sun Power: We all are aware of the regular electricity meter installed at our properties which records the total quantity of electric energy used. However, solar power utilizes a different type of technology, so it might be essential to upgrade your ordinary meter and switchboard so that it can record the amount of solar power that is generated and fed into the grid. For more great articles and information about electricity, visit Brel Digital to find more info.
Off Peak – Time of Use: Generally, electricity consumption is higher during mornings and evenings which are known as peak hours. To motivate people to use electric energy during off-peak hours, electrical energy suppliers have introduced schemes wherein it will cost less to use electricity during off-peak hours. Usually, off-peak hours are between 11 pm and 7 am so you can charge up your electrical appliances that need lots of power during off-peak hours and thus save on your monthly power consumption bills.
How to Use Off-Peak Electricity: Using off-peak electricity is determined by the kind of meter you have installed in your home.
1. Single meters charge electric energy at one fixed rate and don’t offer off-peak electricity.
2. Time of Use or Interval meters charge electric energy to your residence at peak, off-peak, and shoulder rates.
3. Two rate meters have two records maintained, one for peak and another for off-peak. Hence two different rates are charged for all electric energy used during the two different periods of time.
4. Off Peak or Controlled Load meters charge all electric energy at one fixed rate with the omission of a particular piece of equipment; for example, a hot water service, which is provided with electric power during off-peak time periods and charged at off-peak rates.
