Metering Technology Center Values Laboratory Services

Abstract

This paper was prepared for the National Conference of Standards Laboratories International Workshop and Symposium scheduled for 2014. It shares what was learned by CMS Energy’s Laboratory Services and its Metering Technology Center in regards to testing and certification verification of advanced metrology. It also defends the position that accredited laboratories are best suited to perform product testing as part of their services because those who have accreditation are accustomed to applying reference standards to secure, sustain, and accelerate acceptance of advanced technologies. In 2008, CMS Energy, the 4th largest energy utility company in the United States, temporarily transferred three employees from its accredited calibration laboratory to work at its testing facility to test high tech • newly designed Smart Grid Meter products. To this end, CMS constructed its own testing laboratory to verify vendors’ advertised claims that products adhered to C12 American National Standards Institute specification standards. In preparation for testing, CMS made the decision to upgrade its Alternating Current kilowatt-hour meter test equipment and today is uniquely recognized as the first laboratory in the United States accredited to calibrate electrical energy standards. Specific Company testing requirements are expected to subside in 2015 and CMS is looking for other new product assessment opportunities. Workforce synergies were gained and metrology dollars were prudently invested at CMS to assure capital intensive asset purchases were made wisely. What CMS learned in this process can be transferred to your facility to insure your investments are energy efficient and environmentally advanced.