The history of electricity meters

1. Early DC Energy Meters (Late 19th Century)

In 1880, Edison invented the world's first DC energy meter (ampere-hour meter), which measured electricity using the electrolytic principle. This meter was large and had low accuracy, but it pioneered energy metering.

2. Induction Energy Meters (1889)

In 1889, Bleta of the Gönz Company in Hungary invented the induction energy meter, which was suitable for alternating current. While its structure was simple and cost-effective, it suffered from issues such as limited accuracy and limited functionality.

In the figure, 1 represents an aluminum disk and a 24-coil electromagnet (used to generate a magnetic field). Simply put, a current-carrying conductor generates an Ampere force in the magnetic field. This force rotates the aluminum disk, which is then transmitted through 5 to a counting gear, resulting in the reading displayed on the dial.

3. Electromechanical Energy Meters (1990s)

In the 1990s, to meet multifunctional needs, induction meters were combined with electronic circuits, resulting in electromechanical meters. These meters combine mechanical metering with electronic functions, such as time-of-use billing and pulse output, but their accuracy and reliability still need improvement.

4. Electronic energy meters (21st Century to Present)

In 2009, the State Grid Corporation of China promoted the widespread use of smart meters. Smart meters offer features such as bidirectional metering, remote meter reading, anti-theft measures, and support for renewable energy access, making them key terminal equipment for smart grids. Since 2018, smart meters have completely replaced mechanical meters and become mainstream.

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