NGC chief executive Phil James told EnergyReview.Net that NGC and Genesis Power were trialing new pre-payment electricity metering equipment.

"Electricity retailers are required to offer pre-payment options and the market is ready for this new technology. We believe NGC is ideally placed to be involved, given our extensive metering experience and liaison with British metering manufacturer PRI."

The field trial, which began earlier this month in NGC and Genesis staff homes, is scheduled to last three months. If successful, could be expanded to involve other electricity retailers.

Meanwhile, today Genesis and lines company Powerco announced their own three-month trial of power-line communications technology that could make existing metering redundant.

Jackson said the new technology would provide remote readings of energy usage and significantly improve the quality and timeliness of data available.

The new system could allow half-hour interval metering at household level - long recognised as the gold-standard for competitive electricity markets.

"Demand side initiatives being promoted by Government will be enhanced using smart metering. Giving customers better information on their use of energy overcomes a major hurdle in implementing demand response."

Powerco chief executive Steven Boulton said the new technology would also help improve operation of electricity networks, enabling information to be received as well as sent, such as with electricity hot water ripple control. Future wideband development, such as providing Internet through power lines, was also possible.

The trial is to start in the Wanganui region next month, with test equipment being installed in about 150 homes and at major substations.