As part of this process data is gathered from approximately 4,200 volunteers who are mainly domestic gas consumers spread across mainland Great Britain. Consumption data is gathered using recording equipment with an automatic meter reading unit, (AMR), attached to the gas meter. These devices incorporate a low frequency pulse output mechanism. They are set up to capture daily consumption data in an encrypted format, so satisfying all elements of data protection. This consumption data is then automatically transmitted via the GSM network using one of several airtime providers to a central data gathering centre on a daily basis.

Individual data is added to other consumer data from the same area before it is shared with gas transporters and shippers. These devices do not send meter readings so do not affect the gas supplier’s obligation to read the gas meter to calculate the consumer’s bill.

The equipment, whilst wholly owned by Xoserve, is manufactured by Technolog but installed, maintained and managed by Utilitec Services Ltd., (www.utilitecservices.com).

For more details please contact John Ryder on 0121 623 2698 or john.c.ryder@xoserve.com If you have any queries regarding these publications please complete a General Enquiry form.