Harmonised Standards for Electricity Meters

The EN 50470 [2006] has been a well-known European standard for electricity meters for many years. Since the introduction of the Measuring Instruments Directive (MID), this series has been used as harmonised standards under the MID. However, this situation has changed. As indicated on the European Commission’s  Nando website, these harmonised documents expired on 26 February 2023. 

CENELEC TC 13 has already prepared a new set of standards, EN 62052-11:2021/A11:2022, in conjunction with EN 50470-3:2022. These documents are intended, but not yet ratified, for use as harmonised standards under the MID. 

Due to the unclear situation, the old EN 50470 [2006] could still be used for a long time. However, this is no longer the case. Since April 2025, the EN 50470-3 has been superseded. According to NMi’s interpretation, these standards no longer give a presumption of conformity with the MID. Zsuzsanna Dákai, Policy Coordinator for Legal Metrology at the European Commission, has confirmed this view.

As a result, NMi has decided that EN 62052-11:2021/A11:2022, in conjunction with EN 50470-3:2022, must be used instead.

Significance for manufacturers

Certificates already issued for electricity meters will remain valid until the date indicated on the certificate (10 years from the original date of issue). If manufacturers wish to make changes, for example by using modified components, the modified meters must comply with the new standards. In that case, the modified meters will require assessment, particularly focusing on the implemented change. If, for example, the software is changed, only this part will be assessed according to the new standard. Other aspects, such as EMC or other tests, will be disregarded under the condition that the change is not related to these aspects. If the changes are found to be in order, the manufacturer will receive a revision of the certificate.

Manufacturers wishing to enter the market with a new electricity meter have to comply with the new standards EN 62052-11:2021/A11:2022 and EN 50470-3:2022. These standards are state-of-the-art and include the latest requirements for (smart) electricity meters, as discussed in NMi’s white paper with reference 20230208.

Due to the extensive list of tests of these new standards, including the added safety standard 62052-31, as discussed in the aforementioned whitepaper, manufacturers do have to consider longer lead times for type-testing projects.

Need help navigating the new MID standards?

We understand that regulatory changes can be complex. If you’re unsure how the transition to EN 62052-11:2021/A11:2022 and EN 50470-3:2022 affects your current products or future plans, NMi is here to support you.

Share your questions or insights in the comments — or contact us if you’d like to discuss how these changes may apply to your specific situation.

Let’s work through this transition together.