Serbia’s DSO Elektrodistribucija Srbije launches smart meter procurement

Serbia’s distribution system operator Elektrodistribucija Srbije has launched a tender for the procurement and installation of 470,000 smart meters.

The deadline for bids for the relocation of measuring points and replacement of measuring devices to modernize the measuring infrastructure of Elektrodistribucija Srbije (EDS) is May 3.

EDS intends to replace about 470,000 meters, of which about 38,000 will be relocated, according to the public call.

Most of the new meters will be designed to track three-phase power

Potential bidders were asked to submit offers for 300,000 three-phase meters, 82,000 single-phase measuring devices, and 49,000 measuring groups. The contract is valued at EUR 110 million. The documentation doesn’t reveal the sources of financing for the purchase.

The meters will be installed throughout Serbia.

Of note, in November 2021 EDS said it signed a loan agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for the introduction of smart meters. The project was valued at EUR 80 million.

The new meters will reduce losses in the network, prevent unauthorized electricity consumption or theft, and enable remote billing, disconnection of consumers from the grid, and consumption monitoring in real time.

Smart meters are also necessary to increase the number of prosumers

Smart meters are also a prerequisite for citizens to produce energy for self-consumption and become prosumers.

EDS pointed out in the public call that the meters and communication modems have to be compatible with the company’s remote monitoring system of the company and that the selected suppliers would be obliged to provide support during the integration.

The integration of meters and communication modems will be carried out by EDS or an entity that it selects afterward, according to the tender documentation.