Metering Experts Push for Secure Integration Between Legacy and Smart Utility Systems

Energy and utility experts have called for stronger integration between legacy prepaid metering infrastructure and next-generation smart metering systems as utilities across Africa accelerate digital transformation efforts.

The call was made during a recent industry webinar focused on the future of smart utility infrastructure, interoperability, and secure data exchange within evolving energy systems.

Industry stakeholders stressed that traditional prepaid metering technologies and modern smart systems should not be treated as competing solutions, but rather as complementary technologies capable of supporting a smoother transition toward fully digital utility networks.

Utilities Face Growing Digital Infrastructure Transition

Experts noted that many electricity, water, and gas providers are currently modernising infrastructure to support:

• Smart grids
• Remote monitoring
• Automated billing
• Real-time energy management
• Digital payment systems

However, they warned that abandoning existing legacy infrastructure entirely could expose operators to operational risks, unnecessary costs, and service disruptions.

According to industry specialists, millions of prepaid metering devices remain active globally, making backward compatibility and investment protection increasingly important for utilities planning large-scale digital upgrades.

Standardisation Emerging as Critical Priority

A major focus of the discussion centred on interoperability standards designed to allow different metering technologies and vendors to operate within a unified ecosystem.

Experts argued that open standards reduce dependence on single suppliers and lower long-term operational risks for utility companies.

They compared the current evolution of smart metering systems to the standardisation process that transformed the global computer industry through technologies such as USB and Bluetooth.

According to participants, utilities relying heavily on proprietary systems often face challenges when vendors discontinue products or exit markets.

Industry analysts say standardisation could help African utilities scale infrastructure more efficiently while reducing procurement complexity.

Cybersecurity Risks Increasing Across Utility Networks

Cybersecurity also emerged as a major concern during the discussions.

Experts warned that the increasing digitalisation of utility infrastructure is creating new vulnerabilities across:

• Electricity networks
• Water systems
• Gas distribution infrastructure
• Smart city technologies

Stakeholders stressed that utility infrastructure should now be treated as critical national infrastructure requiring stronger security architecture and coordinated industry standards.

The growing integration of remote connectivity, smart sensors, and digital billing systems is increasing the need for secure communication protocols and protected data exchange mechanisms.

Smart Metering Expansion Gains Momentum in Africa

Industry observers say African countries are increasingly investing in smart utility systems to improve:

• Revenue collection
• Energy efficiency
• Consumer transparency
• Infrastructure monitoring
• Operational resilience

However, experts cautioned that infrastructure conditions and regulatory environments differ significantly across regions, requiring flexible deployment strategies.

They added that future smart metering ecosystems must accommodate both advanced digital networks and existing legacy systems during the transition phase.

Open Systems Seen as Key to Long-Term Sustainability

Participants repeatedly emphasised the importance of avoiding vendor lock-in and building flexible infrastructure capable of supporting multiple technology providers.

Analysts say utilities adopting interoperable systems are likely to achieve:

• Lower long-term costs
• Easier infrastructure upgrades
• Improved resilience
• Greater operational flexibility

The broader consensus from the discussion was that successful utility modernisation will depend on balancing innovation with compatibility, security, and long-term sustainability.

Digitnomics Insight

Africa’s utility sector is entering a new phase of digital transformation driven by smart infrastructure, automation, and connected energy systems. As utilities modernise operations, interoperability and cybersecurity are becoming just as important as hardware deployment, positioning smart metering as a major component of the continent’s broader digital infrastructure economy.