What Does Advanced Metering Infrastructure Mean?
Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is a utility metering setup that aids in two-way communication between different applications and their respective service providers. The application usually has an IP address through which it establishes a connection to the server and sends its status information. Although there have been a number of energy monitors, AMI is distinct as it can accurately show how much energy is being consumed as well as its cost in near real-time.
Advanced metering infrastructure is also known as a smart meter.
Techopedia Explains Advanced Metering Infrastructure
As the name specifies, AMI is an advanced technique to monitor energy consumption on the consumer side (from homes, offices and factories). This metering system is gaining popularity throughout the United States.
The meters are considered “smart” because of various integrated technologies to allow for calculations, display, storage and communication with a central server. Data recordings are made every hour (or more frequently) and the data is sent to the utility company for constant monitoring and billing. This two-way communication between the meter and the central system run by the service provider is done via cellular telecommunication technologies and makes remote reporting and problem solving easier.