Russian manufacturers of so-called intelligent metering systems have proposed a policy shift aimed at banning the installation of foreign devices in homes and imposing penalties on violators. This stance has been discussed in connection with findings from an independent anti‑corruption assessment by the law firm Kachkin and Partners. Key government bodies, including the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Justice, the Attorney General, and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, were informed through media outlets about these conclusions.
Since 1 January 2022, the law requires suppliers and grid utilities to use only locally produced meters. Despite this, there is a perception that the legislation lacks specific fines and directly forbids purchasing foreign meters. Some organizations have continued to operate beyond these constraints, a situation seen by observers as a component of corruption risk. On the advice of the law firm, advocates argue for a formal ban on foreign meter purchases and for imposing penalties to deter illegality once and for all.
Market participants quoted by industry observers now anticipate that 2023 will mark a transition to domestic measuring devices as the standard. In tandem, Russian authorities have introduced a series of measures prioritizing locally manufactured meters in state purchases. While this trend reduces the immediate need for punitive actions, questions remain about enforcement and tracking. Some industry insiders point out that it is difficult to monitor how many meters are produced domestically, and a portion of buyers has already seized that opportunity for procurement flexibility.
Another interlocutor noted that at present there are no meters produced entirely within Russia, since the component base relies on imports from other countries. This reality underscores the argument for investing in domestic microelectronics development to strengthen the national supply chain for metering equipment.
Early April coverage indicated that apartment and private homeowners may be required to grant access for residential and communal services workers to install and service smart water and heat meters. This potential responsibility reflects broader policy aims to standardize metering across housing stock and improve energy and water management efficiency.
Previous reports suggested that the plan includes incorporating smart meter installation costs into housing and communal services tariffs, spreading the investment across rate structures to support nationwide modernization while maintaining affordability for residents.