Modular measuring devices for Section 14a EnWG: Intelligent solutions for municipal utilities and energy suppliers

§14a EnWG – often referred to as Paragraph 14a of the German Energy Industry Act or EnWG 14a – obliges network operators to control controllable consumption devices, such as heat pumps, EV charging stations or battery storage systems, in a grid-friendly manner. To do this in a legally compliant and efficient way, feeder-specific measurement in the low-voltage network is essential. Voltage, current and phase displacement must be measured precisely in real time, and the results must be available within a maximum of five minutes to detect, document and react to critical grid conditions. Without such measurement technology, compliance with §14a is practically impossible.

Many local substations in Germany were built decades ago – long before decentralised generation or high peak loads from electromobility became a factor. §14a EnWG, also referred to as the EnWG 14a measurement requirement, now demands precise measurement of current, voltage and phase angle. Retrofitting with modern modular measuring equipment allows these legal requirements to be met without replacing the entire substation – saving space, costs and time, while remaining fully compliant with the regulation.

Acal BFi supplies modular retrofit measurement systems designed specifically to meet the requirements of §14a EnWG. The system consists of voltage meters (Volt 1000 / Volt 1000 S) and current meters (RoCo, Cube). All units are modular, can be cascaded via patch cables, and communicate via Modbus RTU. They record all relevant parameters – voltage, current and phase displacement – in real time, monitor threshold values, and feed the data directly into the control room or SCADA system to ensure full compliance with §14a requirements.

Depending on the configuration, the systems can monitor up to 15 or 20 feeders individually. This EnWG 14a measurement is feeder-specific, allowing operators to perform detailed analysis rather than relying on aggregated values. The connection is made simply using standard patch cables – eliminating the need for extensive rewiring.

The devices feature standardised communication interfaces such as Modbus RTU, enabling seamless integration into existing control, SCADA or visualisation systems. Measurements are transmitted in real time to ensure that operators can act within the reaction times specified in §14a EnWG. An integrated touch display also allows local readout, ensuring operators always have access to the necessary information.

Installation is optimised for retrofitting and minimal disruption. The voltage meter is mounted on a DIN rail, while Rogowski coils are placed around conductors without the need for disconnection. This design makes it possible to meet the Paragraph 14a measurement requirement even in confined local substations – without lengthy outages or major modifications.

Yes. The Volt 1000 includes integrated threshold monitoring for current, voltage and phase displacement. If a threshold is exceeded, an immediate alert is triggered – either visually via LEDs or through digital I/O outputs to the control system. This enables operators to react immediately to critical network conditions, as required by §14a.

Absolutely. The systems are suitable for both new builds and retrofits. For new installations, the measurement technology can be integrated from the outset, ensuring compliance with §14a EnWG from day one. The modular design also allows easy expansion for future requirements.

Unlike standard energy meters, these systems provide feeder-specific real-time measurement, support grid condition monitoring under Paragraph 14a, and offer configurable threshold alarms. They not only meet the legal requirements but also enhance network transparency, support preventive maintenance, and improve long-term grid planning.

Directly from Acal BFi. Our specialists provide tailored advice, technical datasheets and proven solutions for implementing the §14a EnWG measurement requirement. We support municipal utilities and energy suppliers from the initial planning stage through to commissioning, ensuring compliance, efficiency and reliability.