Serbia’s DSO Elektrodistribucija Srbije selects suppliers for 470,000 smart meters

Serbia’s distribution system operator Elektrodistribucija Srbije will purchase smart meters from the consortium of Energotehnika – Južna Bačka and EWG.

In late April, Elektrodistribucija Srbije (EDS) launched a tender procedure for the procurement and installation of 470,000 smart electricity meters. The company valued the investment at RSD 13 billion (EUR 110.8 million), excluding value-added tax.

The terms of the public procurement call include relocating measuring points and the replacement of measuring devices (meters and measuring groups) with the aim of modernizing the distribution grid’s metering infrastructure.

EDS requested offers for 300,000 three-phase meters, 90,000 single-phase meters, and 80 measuring groups

Potential participants were asked to bid to deliver 300,000 three-phase meters, 90,000 single-phase measuring devices, and 80,000 measuring groups.

According to the decision to sign the framework agreement, only one offer was received, from a consortium formed by Energotehnika – Južna Bačka and EWG. It said it would deliver the equipment and services for RSD 12.94 billion (EUR 109.9 million).

Only one offer was submitted

The preliminary deal stipulates that the works would be conducted until the budget is spent, but for two years at most after the contract comes into force.

Energotehnika – Južna Bačka is responsible for 21.1% of the planned works while EWG’s share is 53%. The remaining 25.9% is for the 106 subcontractors. The two firms with the largest shares are Sitel, and Meter and Control.

The new meters will help EDS to reduce grid losses and prevent unauthorized electricity consumption

EDS didn’t disclose how the purchase of smart meters would be financed.

Of note, the utility announced in November 2021 that it signed an EUR 80 million loan agreement for the rollout of smart meters with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Additional loans for the modernization of the grid were secured in May this year.

The new meters will help reduce grid losses, prevent unauthorized electricity consumption or theft, and enable remote monitoring of consumption, EDS said. They are also important for the integration of the prosumers and grid digitalization.