By Chinenye Anuforo
The STS Association and the DLMS User Association (DLMS UA) have signed an agreement to strengthen smart prepayment metering systems, in a move aimed at improving interoperability, security and efficiency across global utility networks.
The partnership brings together STS token technology widely deployed in prepaid electricity systems and the DLMS/COSEM data model, a globally recognised standard for secure and interoperable data exchange in smart metering.
With this agreement, both organisations will work to ensure seamless integration of STS tokens within the DLMS/COSEM protocol, enabling prepaid metering systems to function more efficiently across diverse platforms and technologies.
The DLMS User Association is widely regarded as a global authority in smart metering communication standards, with its protocols adopted by major international standardisation bodies and embedded in modern utility infrastructure.
The collaboration is expected to enhance smart prepayment capabilities, particularly in emerging markets where efficient billing systems and revenue assurance remain critical.
Under the arrangement, both bodies will align their development roadmaps to ensure coordinated evolution of token technology and data exchange systems. The partnership will also drive the development of technical specifications, system compatibility frameworks, and market awareness initiatives to highlight the benefits of integrating both standards.
Beyond electricity, the collaboration is set to expand into broader multi-utility applications, including water, gas and time-based metering, reinforcing the role of both standards in enabling scalable and future-ready utility infrastructure.
The STS Association disclosed that the partnership will be showcased at the Power & Water Nigeria 2026 exhibition scheduled to hold from April 28 to 30 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos.
The event is expected to bring together key stakeholders across Africa’s energy and utilities sector, offering insights into how the integration of STS and DLMS/COSEM technologies can drive smarter and more efficient metering systems.
Analysts noted that the agreement reflected a growing global push towards open standards, digital transformation and sustainable infrastructure in the utilities sector, as operators seek more reliable and interoperable systems in an increasingly connected world.
Leave a comment