March 24, 2011
Gas utilities worldwide are placing increased emphasis on upgrading their operations with smart gas meters that utilize advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) technologies to enable two-way communications between meters and utility systems. Mirroring electric utilities’ smart grid initiatives in many ways, these smart gas meter deployments are designed to improve the efficiency of utility operations, reduce costs, and improve the reliability and safety of natural gas distribution. A recent report from Pike Research forecasts that the adoption of smart gas meters will increase steadily over the next few years, and the penetration of smart meters as a percentage of total gas meters will rise from 4.1% in 2010 to 11.2% by 2016.
“Updating the gas grid will provide instant benefits to both the customer and the utility,” says research analyst Jevan Fox. “Worldwide trends point to an expansion of both natural gas production and natural gas distribution during the coming years, which will make utility efficiency an increasingly important priority for the industry.”
Pike Research forecasts that a total of 28.4 million smart gas meters will be shipped worldwide during the years from 2010 to 2016, and that the total installed base will reach 36.3 million units by the end of that period. Annual unit shipments will rise from 1.9 million smart gas meters in 2010 to 7.8 million by 2016. And the cleantech market intelligence firm expects that these increased volumes will result in a lower average selling price (ASP), as well – the typical cost of a smart gas meter will fall from $137 in 2010 to $117 by 2016.
Pike Research’s report, “Smart Gas Meters”, provides a detailed examination of global and regional smart gas meter trends. It includes an analysis of emerging technologies and standards for network connectivity to gas meters, along with an in-depth review of key industry players. Granular market forecasts are provided for each major world market through 2016. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the firm’s website.
Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. The company’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Grid, Smart Transportation, Smart Industry, and Smart Buildings sectors. For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.7609.