IEC 62052-31:2024 – A New Safety Standard for Electricity Meters: What Manufacturers Need to Know

As technology continues to reshape the field of electrical energy measurement, the publication of IEC 62052-31:2024 in October 2024 marks a significant milestone. This updated safety standard redefines key requirements for electricity meters and load control equipment, aiming to align with evolving technologies and market expectations.
At METCAB, although we did not directly contribute to the development of this standard, our team of technical experts has been closely monitoring and analyzing every update to ensure we can provide accurate guidance and support to manufacturers navigating this transition.

🔍 Key Updates in IEC 62052-31:2024
This revision brings several crucial changes that impact meter designers, testing bodies, and compliance professionals:
Expanded Voltage Scope: The standard now covers applications up to 1500 V AC and 1500 V DC, opening doors for high-voltage system integration.
Inclusion of DC Meters: New requirements specifically address direct current systems, reflecting the increasing adoption of DC-based infrastructures.
Focus on Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE): For the first time, Measurement Category II explicitly refers to EVSE, signaling the rising importance of e-mobility in metering systems.
Enhanced Protection Against Electric Shock: Revised Overvoltage Categories (OVC II and IV) now better reflect real-world field conditions and safety expectations.
Battery Safety Requirements: Specific provisions have been introduced to address integrated power sources used in modern smart meters.
New Testing Protocols for Surge Protective Devices (SPD): These aim to strengthen resilience against voltage surges in demanding environments.

⚙️ Implications for Manufacturers
While these updates aim to improve safety and adaptability in metering systems, they also introduce new compliance challenges:
Design Adjustments: Manufacturers must re-evaluate insulation distances, clearances, and overall design compliance with extended voltage limits.
Revised Testing Protocols: Battery-related safety and SPD testing requirements will affect both internal QA procedures and third-party certification.
Market Alignment: For manufacturers offering solutions for EVSE and DC metering, immediate integration of these updates will be critical for market readiness.

🧩 METCAB’s Recommendations for Manufacturers
To ensure a smooth transition to the new standard, we recommend the following steps:
Review Product Portfolios
Analyze all products with respect to high-voltage requirements, battery safety, and SPD integration.
Update Testing Strategies
Integrate new protocols into your test plans to avoid certification delays and ensure compliance.
Seek Technical Expertise
METCAB’s compliance professionals are ready to offer tailored guidance to help your engineering and quality teams interpret and apply the new requirements efficiently.
Invest in Training
We will soon announce technical training sessions focused on IEC 62052-31:2024 to ensure your teams stay fully up to date.

🤝 Partner with METCAB for a Confident Transition
At METCAB, we take pride in staying ahead of industry regulations and providing trusted support for our clients.
Our services around the IEC 62052-31:2024 standard include:
Technical Interpretation and Advisory
Pre-Certification Planning and Test Preparation
Awareness & Training Programs for Engineering Teams
Ensure your products are safe, compliant, and market-ready under the new standard —
with METCAB by your side.
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