
Favorable regulatory conditions are expected to aid in increasing smart meter rollouts over the next few years. Initiatives from governments, other regulatory organizations, as well as electricity utility companies are expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Mandates are set by these legislative bodies in order to prevent energy theft, ensure secure electricity supply, and monitor and control power consumption in households, as well as commercial and industrial locations. Moreover, in countries such as China, there has been significant activity toward up gradation of meters, distribution networks, transmission systems, and generating capabilities and this is aiding the growth of smart meters. Additionally, the high degree of energy efficiency provided by smart electricity meters is expected to positively impact the industry. Globally, the penetration rate of smart meters varies across different regions due to varying impact of regulatory factors. For instance, until now the maximum impact of regulations regarding smart meters was seen in European and North American regions; however; the trend is anticipated to shift increasingly toward Asia Pacific over the coming years. Further, there is a huge opportunity for growth of smart meters in regions such as Latin America, Middle East and Africa as these regions are experiencing huge surge in electricity demand owing to development in economic conditions. Thus, these regions are anticipated to increasingly adapt advanced technology in order to meet energy security needs.