Mini-grid meter specification checklist
A useful meter specification connects an electrical requirement to an operating process and an acceptance test. Use the following checklist before requesting quotations for a new mini-grid or an expansion.
Reviewed 11 October 2026 · AFMETER
1. Customer connections and installation
- Number of connections by phase, service rating and installation type.
- Nominal voltage, frequency, maximum current and terminal conductor size.
- Integrated keypad or separate customer interface, with a drawing of the proposed installation.
2. Credit, tariff and load control
- How customers purchase credit and how payments are reconciled.
- Required load limits, low-credit alerts, emergency credit and relay behaviour.
- Responsibilities for vending keys and the process for replacing a meter.
3. Communications and platform integration
Name the existing or proposed vending and head-end platforms. State the available communications coverage, required data, read frequency and offline behaviour. Ask for an interface description and a sample integration test. A protocol name does not by itself prove end-to-end compatibility.
4. Evidence and sample acceptance
List the required standards and request evidence for the exact model and firmware. Run sample tests for credit loading, power interruption, relay control, tamper events and platform reconciliation. Agree measurable pass/fail criteria before a volume order.
5. Supply and rollout plan
State quantities by phase, destination, packing, labelling, spare parts and installation-support needs. Include the programme’s procurement requirements if donor funding is involved. Evaluate the total deployment scope, not only the unit meter price.