With reference to the letter, ‘Concerns over new smart metering system’, published in the Opinion page of the Bulletin on November 23, DST Network Sdn Bhd (DSTN) would like to thank the writer for sharing their concerns pertaining to the disruption in provision of services; the disruption in smart meters and end user systems; and the mode of payments and subsequent contingencies.
As a service provider, the concerns of the public are of utmost importance to DSTN. The implementation of the Unified Smart Metering System (USMS) – a unified smart platform that manages electricity and water consumption in a single module with accurate meter readings and provides two-way data sharing between end users and utility providers – is envisioned to improve user experience for the public comprehensively.
Smart meter devices measure and communicate utility usages from the end user’s smart meter to the smart metering system to ensure proper billing. In the event that disruptions occur, water and/or electricity flow and usage will be ceased, and the smart water meter credit will remain untouched.
Additionally, notifications will be issued by the system regularly to alert end users when their credit balance runs low, and to remind them to top up before the credit is exhausted.
Furthermore, credit transfer is automated between provisions of utilities. The latest electric and water usage can be viewed in the last one hour and 24 hours. As an example, should the smart water meter credit run out within 48 hours, an automatic credit transfer from the smart electrical meter will take place with no service interruption to the water supply, and vice versa.
Glitches in the software or outages of the smart meters will not affect the flow of water and electricity supply. Such events will temporarily halt the top-up service. However, this will be restored once the issue in the system has been rectified.
USMS has been implemented in collaboration with relevant agencies from public and private sectors. However, the existing rates of electricity and water services remain the same. Smart meter is the next generation of electricity and water, and is part and parcel to Brunei’s efforts towards fulfilling the Brunei Vision 2035 objective. As a nation, it will help to reduce commercial losses, enhance revenues and serve as an important tool for sustainable utility supplies and reformation in the Sultanate.
DST Network Sdn Bhd
