Revolutionize smart meter connectivity with eSIM and iSIM Technology

Whether you are optimizing logistics or launching connectivity-as-a-service, eSIM technology is the digital backbone of metering. However, smart meter manufacturers, Distribution System Operators (DSO) and utilities face a complex landscape when connecting their devices, contending with regional regulations, carrier changes, battery constraints, and security mandates.

With a single SKU and secure remote provisioning capabilities, well-implemented eSIM services can transform operational complexity into scalable opportunity.

  1. Streamlined manufacturing
    To streamline production device manufacturers can use eSIM technology with a single SKU and post-deployment carrier profile activation. The result? Simplified logistics, reduced regional variations, and lower costs.
  2. Remote connectivity
    Utility providers can remotely switch connectivity with eSIM without needing physical access to meters, ensuring continuity amid network sunsets and phase-outs.
  3. Secure, utility-controlled provisioning
    Designed for critical environments, eSIM platforms enable secure profile provisioning through DSO-controlled backends—data remains within a private, trusted environment.
  4. Battery optimization
    For battery-powered water and gas meters, eSIM offers energy-efficient provisioning options to minimize communication overhead and extend device battery life.
  5. Future-proof security
    The eSIM can be used as a centralized, upgradeable security anchor within the device—supporting evolving standards like post-quantum cryptography. This ensures long-term regulatory compliance and future-ready security.

eSIM technology transforms smart meter management and connectivity by replacing fixed SIMs with flexible, software-defined profiles. It enables a single global hardware design, reducing SKUs and simplifying manufacturing. Utilities gain the freedom to switch carriers remotely, protecting against network sunsets and optimizing costs. For critical infrastructure, eSIM technology allows backend-controlled provisioning, aligning with strict security standards. It also supports operations for battery-powered meters and ensures future compliance with evolving regulations like post-quantum cryptography. In short, eSIM services are a scalable, secure, and future-proof connectivity foundation for the next generation of smart metering.

IDEMIA and O2 have successfully connected millions of UK homes with smart meters, utilizing IDEMIA’s eSIM technology. This partnership is crucial in supporting the UK government’s goal of equipping all homes with smart meters by the end 2025. Smart meters, enabled by secure connectivity, provide consumers with real-time energy usage data, leading to increased energy efficiency and cost savings. IDEMIA’s ruggedized SIMs ensure reliable performance in various environments, contributing to the successful deployment of smart meters across the UK.

  • 23 million

    UK homes with a smart meter

  • 10%

    avg. monthly savings in energy usage

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Why work with IDEMIA?

  • 2000+

    customers in 150+ countries trust us

  • 280

    eSIM platforms deployed in IoT and Consumer areas

  • #1

    and only vendor to offer end-to end GSMA SAS-SM certified ecosystem for eSIM IoT (SGP.32)

Alongside our members [incl. IDEMIA], we presented a multi-vendor smart meter infrastructure that demonstrates how we combine individual solutions from different vendors into one interoperable architecture for metering and demand-side management.

ESMIG (European association of smart energy solutions providers) at ENLIT Europe 2024

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IDEMIA

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