Smart electric meters, called IT‐plus, are expected to revolutionize the electricity user experience in Ethiopia; these meters are centrally controlled and can determine the amount of power each individual client gets.

The Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) has received supplies of these smart meters from the Metal & Engineering Corporation (MetEC). The meters, which can also selectively turn off the power supply to specific clients on an individual level, are manufactured collaboratively by Hi‐Tech Engineering,Ethio Plastic Industries, Metal Fabrication Industries and Hibret Manufacturing Industry.

Following a successful testing by the EEU, the first batch of meters are soon to be delivered. The deal leading to the local manufacture and supply of these meters was signed in 2003 between the EEU and Hi‐Tech Engineering. The launch was formally done at the Hilton Hotel last week.

These new meters are expected to facilitate power redistribution in times of power shortage and technical problems. According to Berihu Gidey, General Manager of Hi‐Tech Industries, the system has intelligence value as power blackouts could easily be achieved at a national level if the need arises.

Plans are already underway to establish a smart grid system at a national level once the company starts manufacturing its full capacity of 1,200 meters daily. The new meters will arrive programmed to adjust to a three‐phase electric power system; this is expected to reduce the processing time for industrial applicants.

Bitweded Gebrealise, CEO of the EEU Wire Business, said; “The main advantage of the electric meter is that it saves electric power, especially for industries. The next process will be the replacement of previously installed electric meters through different phases.”

By Emmanuel Iruobe