Design, condition, fuse sizes, wiring configuration, accessibility, damage, and abnormalities. The HAK constitutes the legally defined boundary between the utility operator and the owner. We open it exclusively on behalf of the respective utility operator.
Design, age, busbar system, number and configuration of meter panels, disconnecting device, and the presence or absence of a selective main circuit breaker.
Space for the smart meter gateway, existing connection point at the meter location, voltage tap, data line, and reception conditions for the communication connection.
Route and cross-sectional area of the main line, separation of PEN into PE and N, condition of the surrounding area, moisture, and third-party installations.
Classification as "suitable," "can be upgraded with some effort," or "replacement required," using standardized defect codes instead of free-form text.
The revised VDE-AR-N 4100:2026 further develops the Technical Connection Rules for Low Voltage. It specifies the requirements for the meter location, particularly with regard to the smart meter rollout and the integration of controllable consumption devices in accordance with Section 14a of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG).
These include, for example, heat pumps, wall boxes, and other controllable consumption devices for which grid-oriented control must be enabled under the appropriate conditions.
Another important change for existing installations concerns the meter location termination point. Under certain conditions, this can be retrofitted in a separate enclosure. This allows existing meter systems to be adapted to the new requirements in many cases without having to immediately replace the entire meter cabinet.
Who is allowed to open the service entrance box?
Yes. The costs for the necessary upgrades are generally borne by the service subscriber or property owner. Before work begins, the subscriber or owner will receive a cost estimate providing a transparent overview of the expected costs.
What makes a meter location unsuitable for a smart metering system?
Most often, it’s a combination of insufficient space and a lack of infrastructure: no room for the gateway, no termination point for the meter, no permanent power tap, and no data line. Added to this are outdated disconnect switches and meter cabinets without a suitable busbar system.
Does the service recipient have to pay for the upgrade?
The customer's system, starting from the service entrance box, is the responsibility of the service subscriber, and this includes the meter location. The specific allocation of costs depends on the individual case and the technical connection requirements of your utility provider. Our assessment provides the factual basis for this discussion; the decision is yours.
Does Netzkontor Nord guarantee that the quota will be met?
Yes, and that's usually the most cost-effective option. Conducting the survey as part of an inspection that's already scheduled saves the trouble of scheduling a separate appointment with the customer. We regularly combine the survey with meter replacements or area-wide inventory checks.
Not sure how many meter locations in your area need to be retrofitted?
In that case, it’s worth conducting a random survey before you begin the rollout. We’ll select a representative area and estimate the retrofit rate.
Do you have any questions? We’re happy to answer any questions you may have regarding service entrance boxes, meter locations, and inventory assessments.
