ZENNER at Enlit 2024: Modern measurement technology meets innovative systems

Newspress

At Enlit 2024 in Milan, Zenner will be presenting innovative and digital solutions for sustainable energy management. Zenner offers all tools from a single source, from digital measurement technology for consumption measuring to remote readout technologies and data platforms through to the finished application. The portfolio is supplemented by innovative cyber security solutions from Asvin GmbH. For remote readout, Zenner relies, among other things, on the Internet of Things (IoT) and currently operates the largest LoRaWAN network in Europe.

Saarbrücken / Milan, September 2024. By 2050, Europe wants to become climate neutral. The topic sustainability is moving centre stage and the various EU regulations are being implemented step by step. The energy and building sectors play an important role in this plan, as both are among the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. In Germany, for example, the building sector is responsible for around 30 per cent of CO₂ emissions. In order to reach a climate neutral building stock, energy consumption for gas, heating and electricity must be mapped transparently. Due to climate change, water as a resource is also becoming increasingly important.

Enlit 2024: From the meter to the measurement system

The digitalisation is therefore becoming the most important task in implementing a successful energy transition. Energy data is needed in high frequency, with high quality and high availability. This is the only way to transparently map, optimise and predict energy consumption. Digital measuring technology, radio technologies and data services must be combined to create integrated, smart solutions. “We are no longer just speaking about products but about systems”, explains Renata Gregori, CEO of Brunata Zenner Srl. “As Zenner offers everything from a single source from the meter to the finished solution and the requirements are becoming more complex, we are moving even more strongly into the position of consultant. Our role today is to make the latest innovations usable for our customers in compliance with all legal requirements”, adds Gregori.

Digital measuring technology with ultrasonic technology

For exactly 100 years, Zenner produces measuring devices and brings a wealth of experience and new innovations to the market. Energy suppliers also benefit from this, as one of the most urgent tasks at the moment is the nationwide switch to digital metering via radio – in combination with smart system solutions. These also include the latest generation of the ultrasonic water meter IUWS, which offers the new “parallel radio” function.

This makes it possible to transmit measurement data simultaneously via two radio technologies – Wireless M-Bus (WM-Bus) and LoRaWAN. This gives customers the flexibility to use both radio readout methods at the same time. In peripheral areas with insufficient network coverage, where there may be isolated obstacles to remote readout via LoRaWAN, this approach is helpful.

LoRaWAN network operation

For transmission of measuring data of water, heat and gas meters Zenner currently operates the largest LoRaWAN network in Europe. Using the network, which is operated in Germany by Zenner Connect, brings many advantages for customers. The scaling options create cost benefits for municipal utilities and local authorities, as they can benefit from lower operating costs and better access to connectivity. “Solutions can also be scaled flexibly. Municipal utilities and smart cities can build up their IoT projects gradually and without network bottlenecks. By constantly investing in the LoRaWAN network, Zenner offers security for the future and customers benefit from a long-term partnership with a reliable partner”, explains Boris Stöckermann, Head of Business Development, Digital Solutions & eCommerce at the Minol-Zenner-Group.

Enlit 2024: New IoT gateway from Zenner

Zenner exhibits a new LoRaWAN gateway with the name “Zenner IoT Gateway outdoor 16” at the Enlit 2024. The gateway expands the existing portfolio and is specially developed for IoT applications with LoRaWAN. The “Zenner IoT Gateway outdoor 16” allows reliable, energy saving data transmission over long distances. With the gateway, all 16 channels can be connected freely to flexible LoRaWAN network servers. Thanks to the most modern LoRaWAN technology, the gateway can support diverse applications – from the smart city to Industry 4.0. The gateway scores especially highly thanks to its simple integration, robust design and comprehensive compatibility with existing networks.

Gas meters in focus at the Enlit 2024

Zenner will produce around eight million gas meters worldwide in 2024, making it one of the largest suppliers in the world. At Enlit 2024 in Milan, Zenner will exhibit their diaphragm gas meters with MID and DVGW approval in the meter sizes G4 and G6. With is ultra-modern and efficient production facilities, Zenner is able to produce meters of the quality expected by gas providers and manufacturers. The right overall package will be crucial here in the future. A modern gas meter needs to be long-term stable and must offer the highest technical quality and safety. In addition, the meters must be able to communicate, be economically attractive and fulfil the current regulatory requirements.

Data security with solutions from Asvin

Asvin GmbH from Stuttgart, an expert for cyber security, is expanding the expertise of the Zenner Group in the area cyber security. With the increasing requirements due to new regulations like NIS2, CRA and RED in the EU, Asvin offers suitable services and tools to operate IoT applications securely and in compliance with the law. This includes cyber security screenings and solutions for cyber security lifecycle management. “Cyber security is a global challenge, and with Asvin we have the expertise to help our customers fulfil these complex requirements”, emphasises Boris Stöckermann from the Minol-Zenner-Group.

A highlight from Asvin at the Enlit 2024 is the Device Security Booster™, a tool for the secure management of IoT devices throughout their entire life cycle. It allows OTA updates (Over the Air) of firmware, security patches and configurations for devices in LoRaWAN and NB-IoT networks – ideal for devices with low bandwidth.

Companies from the utilities and housing industry as well as other sectors benefit from this solution, which simplifies device lifecycle management and makes it more secure. Features like on-boarding, firmware maintenance, off-boarding and predictive maintenance are part of the broad range of services.

You can meet Zenner and Asvin in hall 6, booth B14 at the Enlit 2024 from 22 to 24 October in Milan.