Smart Meter Security: Xemex Complies with RED Directive and High Level Security

The smart meter as an IoT node and data hub

Smart meters act as intelligent IoT endpoints at the edge of the power grid. They collect, process, and transmit detailed energy data for applications such as demand response, predictive maintenance, and decarbonisation.Many meters also store data locally—such as firmware logs, measurement values, and billing information. Given that meters can remain in service for 15–20 years, this embedded data can be a security vulnerability. Manipulation or loss can cause incorrect billing, operational failures, or erode customer trust.

The risks of insufficient data security

Weak protection of stored data can lead to far-reaching consequences—from billing disputes to compliance violations and reputational damage. While many manufacturers focus on securing communications, data-at-rest protection is often overlooked. In addition, outdated protocols, lack of encryption during transmission, and static credentials create risks of interception, manipulation, or even disruption of the power grid.

European security standards: the RED Directive

To improve the security and interoperability of IoT devices in critical infrastructures, the EU has updated the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). From 1 August 2025, stricter requirements apply to network security, data protection, and fraud prevention.
Xemex confirms that all our smart meters, including the P1/A1 Dongle and TIC Dongle, meet these updated requirements, ensuring our solutions are futureproof and compliant with European standards.

High Level Security (HLS): protecting data in transit and at rest

We go beyond regulatory compliance. All Xemex smart meters come with High Level Security (HLS), which ensures:

• Encryption of data both in transmission and in storage
• Authentication of devices and networks to block unauthorised access
• Integrity checks, such as tamper detection and hashing, to prevent manipulation or deletion of data

This layered approach minimises risks of cyberattacks, data loss, and unauthorised access.

Privacy and customer trust at the core

Detailed metering data can reveal personal patterns such as occupancy schedules or appliance usage. That is why transparency in data usage, storage, and security is key to building customer trust. At Xemex, we design privacy protection into our products from the ground up, ensuring compliance with GDPR and the strictest European data privacy regulations.

Security as the foundation of the energy transition

Secure smart meters are a vital pillar for the energy transition. They enable:

• Dynamic tariffs and real-time grid pricing
• Integration with energy management systems
• Grid optimisation and decarbonisation

But this only works if the data is reliable, protected, and transparent. Xemex continuously invests in security technologies so our meters not only measure energy, but also build trust in a safe and sustainable energy system.