The MID certification is a European Union accreditation held by certain energy consumption meters. But what exactly is the MID certification, and why is it necessary? We explain everything about this certification in detail in this article.
What is the MID Certification?
The MID certification – Measuring Instruments Directive – is the seal that certifies that a meter complies with the European Standard EN 50470. To obtain this certification, the meter must have specific characteristics and meet quality standards, such as belonging to class B, established by the regulations in effect since 2004. This certification ensures the accurate reading of consumed energy, with a maximum error margin of 1%.
In other words, meters with MID certification can measure parameters with legal precision in the European Union. Additionally, these meters can measure consumption across various lines or loads of an installation. In fact, they are designed to be installed in different sub-panels.
Why Is It Necessary to Have MID Certification?
If you’re wondering why it’s necessary to have meters with MID certification, here’s the answer. It is mandatory to have meters with MID certification in countries within the European Union, such as Spain, whenever these meters are used to rebill consumed energy. This is the only way to guarantee the end user of the installations will pay the actual amount for their energy usage. Therefore, energy companies or installers must always use sub-meters that comply with the MID Directive.
A clear example could be a municipal commercial entity that owns an office building rented to third parties, which then rebills the proportional share of electricity expenses to each tenant. This entity must ensure the installation of meters with MID certification capable of guaranteeing an accurate reading.
How Can We Identify an MID Device?
Identifying a meter that complies with the European Standard EN 50470 is quick and easy with these tips we’ll provide. A meter with MID certification must meet certain regulatory requirements that should be marked on the device’s labels.
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- Indication that it belongs to class B or D.
- The year of manufacture and the notified body number, e.g., M11 – 1259.
- Identification through a reference issued by the Notified Body.
- Meter’s serial number.
Look for all these details on the electronic device to ensure you are indeed purchasing a meter with MID certification, avoiding any unpleasant surprises.
At SACI we have a wide offer of energy meters that comply with European Standards and perfectly calibrated according to the highest quality standards, guaranteeing the correct measurement of the consumed parameters.
If you have any doubts about a product, do not hesitate to contact us so we can answer your questions and offer you personalized advice.