MDS Procedures Version 3.0 - Gas Networks · MDS Procedures Version 3.0 Page 4 2nd December, 2008 “Read Cycle Schedule” is the term used to describe the order and frequency at

Meter Data Services Procedures

Version 3.0

APPROVED

2nd December, 2008

MDS Procedures Version 3.0 Page 2 2nd December, 2008

Contents

Glossary of Terms........................................................................................................................ 3 1 MDSP-1 Scheduled Meter Read Procedure ............................................................................. 5

1.1 Purpose /Scope.................................................................................................................. 5 1.2 Related Documentation..................................................................................................... 5 1.3 MDSP-1 Scheduled Meter Read Procedure...................................................................... 5 1.4 Procedure Diagram ........................................................................................................... 7

2 MDSP-2 Non-Scheduled Meter Read Procedures ................................................................... 9 2.1 Purpose /Scope.................................................................................................................. 9 2.2 Related Documentation..................................................................................................... 9 2.3 MDSP-2.1 Special Read Procedure ................................................................................ 10 2.4 Special Read Invoicing ................................................................................................... 10 2.5 Shipper Entered Read Procedure .................................................................................... 11 2.6 Shipper Estimate Read Procedure................................................................................... 12 2.7 Job Entered Read Procedure ........................................................................................... 12 2.8 MDSP-2.2 Dial-A-Read Procedure................................................................................. 13 2.9 Networks Call Centre Read Procedure ........................................................................... 14 2.10 Prepayment Read Procedure ........................................................................................... 14 2.11 Procedure Diagrams........................................................................................................ 15

3 MDSP-3 Meter Data Services Ancillary Procedures ............................................................. 18 3.1 Purpose /Scope................................................................................................................ 18 3.2 Related Documentation:.................................................................................................. 18 3.3 Meter Read Estimation Procedure .................................................................................. 19 3.4 Meter Read Validation Procedure................................................................................... 19 3.5 Meter Data Services Reporting Procedures .................................................................... 24

4 Meter Data Services Performance Standards ......................................................................... 26 4.1 Purpose /Scope................................................................................................................ 26 4.2 Related Documentation................................................................................................... 26 4.3 MDSP-4 Meter Data Services Performance Standards................................................... 27


Note: The definitions presented in the Glossary of Terms below are provided solely for ease of understanding and shall have no legal effect. These definitions are not intended to supplant existing or future definitions contained in the Code of Operations to which the within Procedure relates.

Glossary of Terms

“Assigned” is the term used to describe a Gas Point with an End User recorded. “Revenue Protection Procedures” means the document of that name published by the Transporter from time to time and approved by the Commission. “De-assigned” is the term used to describe a Gas Point where no End User is recorded. “Deregistered” is the term use to describe a Gas Point that has no registered Shipper and no End User assigned. “Dial-A-Read procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 2.8. “Dial-A-Read service” is the term used to describe the service provided by the Transporter to enable an End User to submit a NDM Meter Read to the Transporter by telephone (excluding End Users with on site correctors fitted). “Estimated NDM Meter Read” is the term used to describe the value generated and used as an estimate of consumption as part of the Planned Estimate Schedule or where no physical NDM Meter Read has been obtained during the Scheduled Read Cycle. “Hand Held Terminal (HHT)” is the term used to describe the devices used in the collection of scheduled Meter Reads. “Job Entered Read procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 2.7. “Long Term No Access (LTNA)” is the term used to describe a credit meter as defined in section 1.3.4. “Meter Data Services Reporting procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 3.5. “Meter Read Estimation procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 3.3. “Meter Read Validation procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 3.4. “NDM Gas Point meter(s)” is the term used to describe the meter equipment comprised at a Gas Point within a NDM Supply Point. “Non-Scheduled Meter Read(s)” is the term used to describe meter readings for NDM Gas Point meters taken outside the Read Cycle Schedule. “Planned Estimate Schedule” is the term used to describe the frequency of planned estimate NDM reads for NDM Gas Points as outlined in the Read Cycle Schedule.


“Read Cycle Schedule” is the term used to describe the order and frequency at which NDM Gas Point meter(s) are read and is based on the Gas Point consumption. “Read Index” is the term used to describe the metered quantity of gas that has passed through a given meter at a particular point in time, as visible on the meter display. “Read Type” is the term used to describe the type and origin of read entered. “Scheduled Meter Read procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 1.3. “Shipper Entered Read procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 2.5. “Shipper Estimate Read procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 2.6. “Special Read Procedure” is the term used to describe the procedure outlined in section 2.3. “Special Read Request” is the term used to describe the request by a Shipper or the Transporter for a Non-Scheduled Meter Read to be taken at a Gas Point.


1 MDSP-1 Scheduled Meter Read Procedure

1.1 Purpose /Scope

1.1.1 This procedure governs the process for reading NDM Gas Point meters according to a

Read Cycle Schedule. 1.1.2 This procedure is supported by three Meter Data Services (MDS) ancillary procedures:

• Meter Read Estimation procedure;

• Meter Read Validation procedure;

• Dial-A-Read procedure; and

• Meter Data Services Reporting procedure

1.2 Related Documentation

1.2.1 This procedure relates to the following documents:

• Code of Operations - Part F, Section 5 (Meter Data Services)

• MPD08 – Meter Read Information

• MPD09 – Meter Read Query Resolution

• MPD14 – Notification for Read Cycle Updates

• Revenue Protection Procedures

1.3 MDSP-1 Scheduled Meter Read Procedure

1.3.1 The Transporter shall endeavour to provide or shall endeavour to procure the provision of

Meter Read services for all NDM Gas Points with a meter fitted in accordance with a

schedule of Gas Point meter readings (the Read Cycle Schedule), as agreed by the

Commission and published by the Transporter from time to time.

1.3.2 Gas Point annual consumption or meter status shall dictate the frequency of the meter

reading as set forth in following table:


Table 1- Read Cycle Schedules

Gas Point

Consumption /

Meter Status

Read Schedule Description

0 to 72,999 kWh 4 actual + 2 planned

estimated reads within

each year (bi-monthly

read schedule)

The Transporter shall endeavour to

physically read meters four times per

annum and shall conduct planned estimated

reads twice per annum. The estimated

NDM Meter Read shall be generated in

accordance with the Meter Read

Estimation Procedure in Section 3.3.

> 73,000 kWh 12 actual reads (monthly

read Schedule)


physically read meters once a month.

• LTNA Meters 2 addition actual reads to

the schedule outlined

above which depends on

Gas Point consumption.

As applicable.

The Transporter shall endeavour to obtain

the additional physical reads during the

summer period.

• Non-Registering

Credit Meters

1 addition actual read to

the schedule outlined

above which depends on

Gas Point consumption.

As applicable.


physically assess meters once per annum.

• Non-Vending

Prepayment

Meters

1 actual read The Transporter shall endeavour to

physically visit and assess meters once per

annum.

1.3.3 The Read Cycle Schedule shall be compiled in accordance with Section 1.3.2 Table 1.

Details of the Read Cycle Schedule applicable to each GPRN shall be made available to

the relevant Registered Shipper(s) in accordance with the Meter Data Services Reporting

Procedure in section 3.5. Changes to whether a gas point is read on a monthly read or a

bi-monthly read schedule will be made available to the relevant Registered Shipper in

accordance with MPD14 – Notification for Read Cycle Updates.

1.3.4 The Transporter shall endeavour to obtain Meter Reads in accordance with Table 1

above. Where an NDM Meter Read at a credit meter has not been obtained by the

Transporter or originating from an End User after three consecutive scheduled attempts

or within twelve (12) months, the meter shall be considered by the Transporter to be


LTNA. The Transporter shall endeavour to carry out two additional reads during the

summer period at LTNA meters; these meters may be visited outside normal working

hours. 1.3.5 The Transporter shall validate the NDM Meter Reads in accordance with the Meter Read

Validation procedure, Section 3.4, and shall make available the appropriate reads and the

next date on which a Meter is scheduled to be read to the relevant Registered Shipper in

accordance with MPD08 – Meter Read Information.

1.3.6 Where the Transporter is unable to gain access to the NDM Gas Point meter to obtain an

NDM Meter Read, the Transporter shall leave a Dial-A-Read card which informs the End

User how to submit a Meter Read by telephone by availing of the Dial-A-Read service.

1.3.7 Where consumption is recorded at a Gas Point where there is no Registered Shipper, the

NDM Meter Read shall be recorded and action taken by the Transporter in accordance

with the Revenue Protection Procedures.

1.3.8 Where consumption is recorded at a Gas Point that is De-assigned and/or locked but

where there is a Registered Shipper, the NDM Meter Read shall be recorded and action

taken by the Shipper and/or Transporter in accordance with the Revenue Protection

Procedures.

1.4 Procedure Diagram

1.4.1 A diagrammatic representation of the procedure is set out below, for ease of

understanding and shall have no legal effect:

• MDSP-1.1 Scheduled Meter Read

1.4.2 In the event of a conflict between the diagram in this section and section 1.3, section 1.3

shall prevail.


Start

System generated "ReadRequest Batch File"

created

File downloaded tohandheld terminal

Meter Reader calls to GasPoint

Access achieved& Read obtained?

* Record "No Read" and givereason

* Leave Dial-A-Read Card atpremise

* No Access Details enteredto GNI Systems & FARestimate generated andentered in Held position

Transporter Shipper End User

Yes No

Receives Dial-A-Read Card

Receive MarketMessage for MeterRead Information

End

Meter Read issued inaccordance with MPO08 -Meter Read Information

Read passesprimary

validation?No

YesIs Dial -A-Readservice used?

Yes

No

FAR estimated read removedfrom held position forms part

of Meter Read File

Refer to Dial-A-Read

Procedure

Procedure Title: Scheduled Meter Read MDSP-1.1

Input Read to HandheldTerminal - Primary

Validation carried out

Read re-entered andvalidation check

Meter Read enteredto GNI Systems

Meter Readsuploaded to meter

read datamanagement system

Read passessecondary validation?

Yes

Read passesd bymeter reading

validation staff?

No

Yes

No


2 MDSP-2 Non-Scheduled Meter Read Procedures

2.1 Purpose /Scope

2.1.1 These procedures govern the process for reading NDM Gas Point meters outside the

Read Cycle Schedule:

• Special Read procedure;

• Shipper Entered Read procedure;

• Shipper Estimate Read procedure;

• Job Entered Read procedure;

• Dial-A-Read procedure;

• Networks Call Centre Read procedure; and

• Prepayment Read procedure.


2.2.1 These procedures relate to the following documents:

• Code of Operations – Part F, Section 5 (Meter Data Services)

• GPRO Procedures

• MPD02 – Change of Shipper & Cancellation of a COS NDM

• MPD04 – End User Assignment

• MPD05 – Change of Shipper Correction/Amendment

• MPD06 - Registration



• MPD11 – Shipper Estimate Read Request

• MPD15 – Management of Appointments

• MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM

Sites

• MPD17 – Cancellation of Operational Site Works Request

• MPD18 – Safety Lock Notification and Turn-on Meter

• MPD19 – Management of Site Works Complaints

• MPD22 – Site Works Invoicing

• MPD31 – Prepayment Vending Transaction

• Shipper’s Operational Siteworks Services Agreement

• Charges for Siteworks Services (NDM) document

• Meter Read Query Resolution Policy


2.3 MDSP-2.1 Special Read Procedure

2.3.1 Only the Transporter shall carry out Meter Reads in accordance with this procedure.

2.3.2 Special Reads may be requested by the Shipper or the Transporter for any reasonable

purpose, by raising a Special Read Request in accordance with MPD16 – Creation and

Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM Sites and MPD15 –

Management of Appointments.

2.3.3 The Shipper or the Transporter shall create a work request for a Special Read in

accordance with MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works Request

for NDM Sites and select an appointment time from the schedule of appointment times in

accordance with MPD15 – Management of Appointments.

2.3.4 The Transporter shall endeavour to procure a Special Read by reading the relevant NDM

Gas Point meter at the End User’s premise and entering the Meter Read details into the

GNI Systems. The Transporter shall validate the NDM Meter Read in accordance with

the Meter Read Validation procedure, Section 3.4, and shall make available the

appropriate read to the relevant Shipper in accordance with MPD16 – Creation and

Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM sites.

2.3.5 If the Transporter cannot complete the Special Read Request at the appointed time due to

non access, the Transporter shall update the job appointment record and notify the

relevant Shipper or the Transporter in accordance with MPD16 – Creation and

Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM sites who may then arrange a

new Special Read Request.

2.4 Special Read Invoicing

2.4.1 The cost of each Special Read, as set out in the Shipper’s Operational Siteworks Services

Agreement, requested by a Shipper shall be payable by the Shipper as follows:

a) Where a Special Read Request is raised for any purpose other than that outlined in

2.4.1(b) or 2.4.2 below, and the NDM Meter Read is obtained, the Transporter shall

invoice the Shipper in accordance with the Shipper’s Operational Siteworks

Services Agreement and MPD22 – Site Works Invoicing;

b) Where a Special Read Request is raised as part of the Meter Read Query

Resolution Process and in accordance with MPD9 – Meter Read Query Resolution


and the NDM Meter Read is obtained, the Transporter shall if the Special Read

confirms that the queried Meter Read is:

1. Correct - invoice the Shipper in accordance with the Shipper’s Operational

Siteworks Services Agreement and MPD22 – Site Works Invoicing; or

2. Incorrect – the Shipper will not be charged for the Special Read.

2.4.2 Where a Special Read Request is raised for any purpose by a Shipper and the Transporter

keeps the appointment but cannot gain access to the NDM Gas Point meter, the

Transporter shall invoice the relevant Shipper in accordance with MPD22 – Site Works

Invoicing, the Operational Site Works Services Agreement and the Charges for Siteworks

Services (NDM) document for each such visit.Where a Special Read is requested by the

Transporter the associated costs will be borne by the Transporter.

2.4.3 The charges for Special Reads shall be as approved by the Commission.

2.5 Shipper Entered Read Procedure

2.5.1 A Shipper may enter a Meter Read for an NDM Gas Point to which they are the

Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD4 – End User Assignment and MPD8 –

Meter Read Information. This Meter Read will be validated in accordance with Meter

Read Validation procedure in Section 3.4;

a) Where the read fails validation the Shipper will be notified of the reason the Meter

Read has failed in accordance with MPD4 – End User Assignment and MPD8 –

Meter Read Information.

b) Where the Meter Read passes validation, the Meter Read is recorded in the GNI

Systems and the Shipper will be notified in accordance with MPD4 – End User

Assignment and MPD8 – Meter Read Information.


2.5.2 A Shipper may enter a Meter Read for an NDM Gas Point to which they are submitting a

Change of Shipper request in accordance with MPD2 – Change of Shipper &

Cancellation of a COS NDM. An Incoming or Outgoing Shipper may provide Meter

Read details for an NDM Gas Point if the recent COS transaction is subsequently

discovered to be erroneous in accordance with MPD5 – Change of Shipper

Correction/Amendment. This Meter Read will be validated in accordance with Meter

Read Validation procedure in Section 3.4;

a) Where the read fails validation the Shipper will be notified of the reason the Meter

Read has failed in accordance with MPD2 – Change of Shipper & Cancellation of a

COS NDM and MPD5 – Change of Shipper Correction/Amendment.

b) Where the Meter Read passes validation, the Meter Read is recorded in the GNI

Systems and the Shipper will be notified in accordance with MPD2 – Change of

Shipper & Cancellation of a COS NDM and MPD5 – Change of Shipper

Correction/Amendment.

2.6 Shipper Estimate Read Procedure

2.6.1 A Shipper may request an estimated Meter Read from the Transporter for an NDM Gas

Point to which they are the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD11 – Shipper

Estimated Read Request.

a) Where the estimate read request fails validation the Shipper will be notified of the

reason in accordance with MPD11 – Shipper Estimated Read Request.

b) Where the estimate read request passes validation, an estimate read will be generated

for the relevant gas point in accordance with section 3.3 Meter Read Estimation

Procedure. The estimate Meter Read is recorded in the GNI Systems and the Shipper

will be notified in accordance with MPD11 – Shipper Estimated Read Request.

2.7 Job Entered Read Procedure

2.7.1 Only the Transporter shall carry out Siteworks and record Meter Reads as required, in

accordance with the Operational Siteworks Services Procedure, MPD16 - Creation and

Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM Sites, MPD18 – Safety Lock

Notification and Turn-on Meter and MPD6 – Registration.

2.7.2 Where a job has been completed the details shall be entered in the GNI Systems. Where

a job read is required the GNI Systems will request the user to enter the Meter Read


index. Where a job read is not required, the GNI Systems will allow the user to enter a

Meter Read index if it was recorded in the course of carrying out Siteworks on site.

2.7.3 The Meter Read will be validated in accordance with the Meter Read Validation

procedure in Section 3.4;

a) Where the read fails validation an operative maybe asked to recheck the job details at

the Gas Point.

b) Where the job read was required by the GNI Systems and where it passes validation

the Meter Read is recorded in the GNI Systems and exported to the Shipper in

accordance with MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works

Request for NDM Sites, MPD18 – Safety Lock Notification and Turn-on Meter and

MPD6 – Registration as appropriate.

c) Where a job read was not required by the GNI Systems, but entered on the GNI

Systems and where it passes validation the Meter Read is recorded in the GNI

Systems and exported to the Shipper in accordance with MPD8 – Meter Read

Information.

2.8 MDSP-2.2 Dial-A-Read Procedure

2.8.1 When the Transporter cannot gain access to a premise to read the NDM Gas Point meter,

the Transporter shall leave a Dial-A-Read card at the premises which informs the End

User how to submit a Meter Read by telephone by availing of the Dial-A-Read service.

2.8.2 The No Access details will be entered to the GNI Systems and a FAR Estimate read will

be generated and entered in a held position.

2.8.3 Where a NDM Meter Read is submitted to the Transporter using the Dial-A-Read

service:

a) Within four (4) days of the scheduled read date the dialled in read shall be validated

in accordance with the relevant validation protocols;

1. Where the Meter Read passes validation it will be recorded in the GNI Systems

and exported to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8 – Meter Read

Information.

2. Where the Meter Read fails validation it will be rejected. At the end of the four

day period, the FAR Estimate Read will be removed from the held position and

exported to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8 – Meter Read

Information.


b) After four (4) days of the scheduled read date,

1. The read will be validated in accordance with Section 3.4.

• Where the Meter Read passes validation it will be recorded in the GNI

Systems and exported to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8 –

Meter Read Information.

• Where the Meter Read fails validation it will be rejected.

2.8.4 Where a NDM Meter Read is not submitted to the Transporter using the Dial-A-Read

service within 4 days of the scheduled read date the FAR Estimate read will be removed

from the held position and exported to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8

– Meter Read Information.

2.8.5 The End User may at any time submit a read in respect of their NDM Gas Point meter by

availing of the Dial-A-Read service. Such NDM Meter Read shall be validated in

accordance with the validation protocols. If a read is dialled in ten (10) or less days prior

to the scheduled read date for the NDM Gas Point, and passes validation, the scheduled

read will not take place and the NDM Meter Read submitted through the Dial-A-Read

will be made available to the Shipper.

2.8.6 In the course of availing of the Dial-A-Read service the End User maybe referred to the

Networks Call Centre if the GPRN or Meter Read being supplied fail validation which is

applied in accordance with section 3.4.

2.9 Networks Call Centre Read Procedure

2.9.1 The Networks Call Centre may record a Meter Read on the GNI Systems if requested by

an End User. This Meter Read will be validated in accordance with Meter Read

Validation procedure in Section 3.4.

2.10 Prepayment Read Procedure

2.10.1 When an End-User of a prepayment meter vends, the meter read index will be recorded

and made available to the Transporter in accordance with MPD31 – Prepayment Vending

Transaction. This Meter Read will be validated in accordance with Meter Read

Validation procedure in Section 3.4;


2.11 Procedure Diagrams

2.11.1 Diagrammatic representations of the procedures are set out below, for ease of

understanding and shall have no legal effect:

• MDSP-2.1 Special Reads

• MDSP-2.2 Dial-A-Read

2.11.2 In the event of a conflict between the diagrams in this section and sections 2.3 and 2.8,

sections 2.3 and 2.8 shall prevail.


Start

Transporter

Procedure Title: Special Read (interim procedure until HHT job management introduced) MDSP-2.1

Shipper End User

Start

Shipper raises a request forspecial read and sets

appointment

End User requests aspecial read through

Networks or theirShipper ?

Request for special readreceived

Meter reader calls to GasPoint

Job card issued to meterreader

Access achieved &Read obtained?

Received MarketMessage with

Siteworks Information

Shipper

Network Ops

Yes

No

End

End

Meter reader leaves a noaccess card at the End

User premise

Receives no accesscard

Read issued inaccordance with MPD16

- Creation andCompletion of

Operational Site WorksRequest for NDM sites

Read passesvalidation?

GNI System Requests read to be entered for job &

assigns job specific read type.

First time to fail?Second time to

fail?

First timeto fail

No

Meter reader sent torecheck read to Gas

Point

Second timeto fail

Job details updatedon GNI Systems

Read index entered

Transporter raises a requestfor special read and sets

appointment

Shipper notified ofjob status

Job details updated onGNI Systems with no

access details

Job card updated - readrecorded

Job card updated

Yes


Start

Meter reader leaves Dial-A-Read card at End User premise,

no access details entered to GNI Systems & FAR estimate generated

and entered in held position

Transporter

Procedure Title: Dial-A-Read MDSP-2.2

Shipper End User

Receives Dial-A-Read card

Meter Read dialedin within 4 days ofattempted read?

Receive MarketMessage for MeterRead Information

End of Dial-A-Read call

End User requested toenter GPRN

Valid GRPNentered?

End User requested toenter read

Read passesprimary validation?

Yes

Read accepted

No

No

Yes

End

Yes

First time to fail?Second time to

fail?

First time to Fail

First time to fail?second time to

fail?

First time to Fail

Read passesvalidation?

No

Read passessecondaryvalidation?

Call center staffrequested to re-enter

read

Read validated asacceptable ?

Meter Read is reviewdby meter readingvalidation staff

No

Read passessecondaryvalidation?

No

Read rejected as FARestimate already issued

Read issued inaccordance with

MPD08 - Meter ReadInformation

Refer toScheduled MeterRead procedure

Dial-A-Read replacesFAR estimated read in

GNI Systems andrecorded as "PR"

Yes

Yes

FAR estimated read removedfrom held position so it can be

released to Shipper

Dial-A-Read replacesFAR estimated readin GNI Systems and

recorded as "PP"

Dial-A-Read isrecorded in GNISystems as "PC"

Yes

Call center staff entercustomer details onbehalf of End User

No

Is the Dial-A-Read service

used?

FAR estimated read removedfrom held position so it can be

issued to ShipperNo

Yes

Second timeto Fail

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Second time to Fail

Yes


3 MDSP-3 Meter Data Services Ancillary Procedures

3.1 Purpose /Scope

3.1.1 This section governs the Meter Data Services Reporting procedures and the ancillary

procedures that support both the scheduled and Non-Scheduled Meter Read procedures.

3.1.2 The ancillary procedures are intended to ensure that:

a) A NDM Meter Read is of sufficient accuracy; and

b) An estimated NDM Meter Read is calculated by the GNI Systems, as and when

required.

3.1.3 The procedures described in this section should be referred to where references are made

to the “Validation Protocols and Reporting” document as is the case in the Market

Process Definition documents.

3.1.4 The procedures described in this section are:

• Meter Read Estimation;

• Meter Read Validation;

• Meter Data Services Reporting.

3.2 Related Documentation:

3.2.1 This procedure relates to the following documents:


• Code of Operations – Part G , Section 3 (Measurement)

• Code of Operations – Part G , Section 4 (Measurement Equipment Verification)

• Meter Read Query Resolution Policy

• MPD02 – Change of Shipper & Cancellation of a COS NDM

• MPD04 – End User Assignment

• MPD05 – Change of Shipper Correction/Amendment

• MPD06 - Registration



• MPD11 – Shipper Estimate Read Request

• MPD12 – Periodic MRS Reporting

• MPD14 – Notification for Read Cycle Updates

• MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM

sites


• MPD18 – Safety Lock Notification and Turn-on Meter

• Market Message Implementation Guide

• FAR Procedures

• GPRO Procedures

• Revenue Protection Procedures

• Read Type Reference Table

3.3 Meter Read Estimation Procedure

3.3.1 The purpose of the Meter Read estimation process is to generate a calculated value of

consumption for a NDM Gas Point in the following circumstances:

• Where No Meter Read has been obtained for a NDM Gas Point as part of the

Scheduled Read Cycle and the End User has not dialled in a NDM Meter Read within

four (4) Business Days of the scheduled read date;

• Where a Planned Estimated NDM Meter Read is required as part of the Read Cycle

Schedule as set out in Section 1, Table 1;

• Where the NDM Meter Read is rejected after failing the validation process;

• In connection with the NDM Meter Read validation process; and

• In connection with the NDM Meter Read exception and amendment processing.

3.3.2 The GNI Systems will generate an estimated read for the NDM Gas Point in accordance

with the FAR Procedures as set out in the Code of Operations Procedures.

3.4 Meter Read Validation Procedure

3.4.1 The Meter Read Validation procedure is intended to ensure that accurate NDM Meter

Reads for a Gas Point are made available to the relevant Shipper.

3.4.2 Meter Read validation undertaken by the Transporter can be categorised into the

following categories:

• Primary validation (Validation which is applied on the Hand Held Terminals)

• Secondary validation (Validation which is applied on the GNI Systems when Meter

Reads are loaded from the Meter Read data management system and the Dial-A-Read

System unto the GNI Systems)

• Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems user

• Validation as per specific messages in the Market Message Implementation Guide

• Prepayment meter validation


3.4.3 Validation is applied in accordance with the relevant read procedure and market process

according to the following table:

Table 2 - Meter Read validation applied

Procedure/Market Process through which Reads are presented to the Transporter Validation Applied

1.3 MDSP-1 Scheduled Meter Read Procedure

Primary and secondary validation

2.3 MDSP-2.1 Special Read Procedure Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems user

2.5 Shipper Entered Read Procedure

MPD4 – End User Assignment As per G401RQ – End User Assignment Request in the Market Message Implementation Guide

MPD8 – Meter Read Information As per M801RQ – Meter Read Request - NDM in the Market Message Implementation Guide

MPD2 – Change of Shipper & Cancellation of a COS NDM

As per G201RQ – Change of Shipper NDM Request in the Market Message Implementation Guide

MPD5 – Change of Shipper Correction/Amendment

Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems users (in conjunction with the relevant Shippers)

2.6 Shipper Estimate Read Procedure

MPD11 – Shipper Estimate Read Request As per M1101RQ – Estimated Read Request in the Market Message Implementation Guide

2.7 Job Entered Read Procedure

MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM Sites

MPD18 – Safety Lock Notification and Turn-on Meter

Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems user

2.8 MDSP-2.2 Dial-A-Read Procedure Secondary validation

2.9 Networks Call Centre Read Procedure Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems user

2.10 Prepayment Read Procedure

MPD31 – Prepayment Vending Transaction

Prepayment meter validation


3.4.4 Primary validation

Scheduled Meter Reads are recorded using a HHT following a scheduled visit to a gas

point. Primary validation is validation applied at source. During a scheduled visit to a gas

point and while at the gas point meter, a meter reader enters the meter index into the

HHT. The actual consumption is validated against four consumption registers. The

consumption registers are derived from the estimated consumption calculated according

to the Meter Read Estimation Procedure in section 3.3 and the tolerances outlined in the

table below: Table 3 - Consumption Register Settings

Consumption Register Tolerance Consumption Register Setting

High 2 400% 400% of Estimate Consumption

High 1 200% 200% of Estimate Consumption

Low 1 20% 20% of Estimate Consumption

Low 2 0% 0% of Estimate Consumption

Where a Meter Read is found on-site to result in consumption which:

a) falls between the High 1 and Low 1 consumption registers, then the Meter Read is

accepted by the HHT;

b) falls between the High 1 and High 2 consumption registers, then the meter reader on-

site is prompted to re-enter the Meter Read. If the Meter Read falls between these

consumption registers for a second time, then the Meter Read is accepted by the HHT.

c) falls between the Low 1 and Low 2 consumption registers, then the meter reader on-

site is prompted to re-enter the Meter Read. If the Meter Read falls between these

consumption registers for a second time, then the Meter Read is accepted by the HHT.

d) exceeds the High 2 consumption register, then the meter reader on-site is prompted to

enter the meter number and re-enter the Meter Read. If the meter number is correct and

the Meter Read exceeds this consumption register for a second time, then the Meter Read

is accepted by the HHT. If the meter number is not correct, the read will be recorded by

the HHT but will be flagged as a potential GPRN with a meter number mismatch.

e) is lower than the Low 2 consumption register, then the meter reader on-site is

prompted to enter the meter number and re-enter the Meter Read. If the meter number is

correct and the Meter Read falls below this Low 2 consumption register for a second

time, then the Meter Read is accepted by the HHT. If the meter number is not correct, the

read will be recorded by the HHT but will be flagged as a potential GPRN with a meter

number mismatch.


All data on a HHT following a scheduled read cycle (including Meter Reads accepted,

Non-Access Details etc.) will be loaded onto the meter read data management system.

3.4.5 Secondary validation

Meter Reads presented to the GNI Systems from the meter read data management system

or the Dial-A-Read system will be subject to secondary validation prior to being recorded

on the GNI Systems. Only Meter Reads from the meter read data management

system which have not been flagged as being associated with a potential meter number

mismatch will be accepted; Meter Reads from the meter read data management system

which have been flagged as being associated with a potential meter number

mismatch will be reviewed by experience meter read validation staff. The table

below outlines the secondary validation applied to Meter Reads. Meter Reads which

pass these secondary validation checks will be made available to the Registered

Shipper the following Day in accordance with MPD8 – Meter Read Information.

Table 4 – Secondary validation

Secondary

Validation Type Description of Secondary Validation Applied

Meter Read date

check

If an actual Meter Read already exists for the date of the new Meter Read or

a Meter Read with a later date already exists at this gas point, then the new

Meter Read will not be accepted, otherwise the new Meter Read will be

deemed to have passed this check.

Maximum

consumption

check

If the Meter Read results in a consumption which exceeds the maximum

consumption at the gas point, then the Meter Read will not be accepted,

otherwise the Meter Read will be deemed to have passed this check. The

maximum consumption will be determined from the Annual Quantity setting

at the gas point.

Negative

consumption

check

If the Meter Read results in a negative consumption exceeding 9,000kWh,

then the Meter Read will not be accepted, otherwise the Meter Read will be


Meter index wrap

around check

If the index at the Meter is deemed to have wrapped around, then the Meter

Read will not be accepted, otherwise the Meter Read will be deemed to have

passed this check.

Where a Meter Read fails one of the secondary validation checks, experienced meter read

validation staff will review the read within 4 working days; these Meter Reads will only


be made available to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8 – Meter Read

Information if they are approved by experienced meter read validation staff.

3.4.6 Manual validation by experienced GNI Systems user

Meter Reads recorded in the course of Siteworks activities are manually entered on

the GNI Systems by experienced GNI Systems users. On entry of the Meter Read to

the GNI Systems, the experienced user will review the consumption generated by the

Meter Read index. The experienced user can accepted the Meter Read if the

consumption generated appears acceptable, otherwise they can either reject the Meter

Read or hold the Meter Read in the GNI Systems so that it can be rechecked.

3.4.7 Prepayment validation

Meter Reads received from the Prepayment Meter Back Office Service Provider will only

be recorded on the GNI Systems where they pass the validation checks in the table

below.

Table 5 – Prepayment validation

Description of Prepayment Validation Applied

If the GPRN associated with the Meter Read is invalid or has not be provided with the Meter

Read, then the Meter Read will not be accepted, otherwise the new Meter Read will be deemed

to have passed this check.

If the Meter Number associated with the Meter Read is invalid and/or doesn’t exist on the GNI

Systems, then the Meter Read will not be accepted, otherwise the Meter Read will be deemed to

have passed this check.

If the Meter Read Date is less than the date of the last Meter Read entered on the GNI Systems

for that GPRN, then the Meter Read will not be accepted, otherwise the Meter Read will be


If the Meter Read already exists on the GNI Systems, then the Meter Read will not be accepted,

otherwise the Meter Read will be deemed to have passed this check.

Where a Meter Read fails one of the prepayment validation checks, experienced meter

read validation staff will review the read within 4 working days; these Meter Reads will

only be made available to the Registered Shipper in accordance with MPD8 – Meter

Read Information if they are approved by experienced meter read validation staff.


3.5 Meter Data Services Reporting Procedures

The Transporter shall provide reports to Registered Shippers, as appropriate, relating to

the meter reading services activities, in accordance with MPD12 – Periodic MRS

Reporting as follows: 3.5.1 Read Cycle Schedule report

This annual report outlines the NDM Read Cycle Schedule for the Registered Shippers

Gas Points.

3.5.2 Long Term No Access report

This bi-annual report lists any relevant meters that have fallen into the category of Long

Term No Access.

• The Registered Shipper will have the responsibility to direct any necessary action in


Request for NDM sites.

• The Transporter will endeavour to visit these sites an additional two times during the

summer months in accordance with section 1.3. 3.5.3 Suspect vacant premises report

This monthly report lists any relevant meters that have been highlighted by the meter

reader as “Suspect vacant premises”.

• The meter will remain on the Read Cycle Schedule and the Registered Shipper will

have the responsibility to direct any necessary action in accordance with MPD16 –

Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works Request for NDM sites. 3.5.4 Demolished premises & missing meters report


reader as being missing or at a demolished premise.

• An Investigation job will be raised and the Transporter will visit the premises and

confirm that the gas installation is safe. A closing read will be entered equal to the

last known Meter Read with a taken date equal to the date of discovery by

Transporter of the missing meter or demolished premise.

3.5.5 Unreadable meters report


reader as being unreadable.

• A job will be raised by the Transporter as appropriate.


3.5.6 Special read service report

In accordance with MPD16 – Creation and Completion of Operational Site Works

request for NDM Sites, the Registered Shipper will now be notified when a special read

request job raised by them in accordance with MPD16 – Creation and Completion of

Operational Site Works request for NDM Sites has been received by the Transporter. 3.5.7 Consuming locked meters report

This monthly report lists any relevant meters that are locked and showing consumption.

• The Registered Shipper and/or the Transporter will have the responsibility to direct

any necessary action, in accordance with the Revenue Protection procedures and in


Request for NDM sites. 3.5.8 Consecutive planned estimate report

This bi-annual report lists any relevant meters that have had two (2) or more consecutive

Planned Estimates raised against them. 3.5.9 Consecutive actual zero consumption reads report

This annual report lists any relevant meters that have had four (4) or more consecutive

actual zero consumption reads recorded against them and are not recorded as locked. 3.5.10 Dial-A-Read Service response rate report

This bi-annual report outlines the response rate to the Dial-A-Read service cards which

are left when no access is gained on scheduled meter read cycle. 3.5.11 Prepayment meter transaction data and reports

Periodic data downloads and reports will be issued to the Shippers on behalf of the

Transporter from the prepayment meter front and prepayment meter back office service

providers. 3.5.12 Performance standards report

This annual report will outline the Transporter performance in line with the performance

standards in section 4.3 Meter Data Services Performance Standards.


4 Meter Data Services Performance Standards

4.1 Purpose /Scope

4.1.1 This section governs the Meter Data Services Performance Standards. This section sets

out the performance standards which the Transporter will endeavour to achieve and

report on.


4.2.1 These Procedures relate to the following documents:


• MPD12 – Periodic MRS Reporting


4.3 MDSP-4 Meter Data Services Performance Standards

The Transporter shall endeavour to provide a meter reading service in keeping with the

following performance standards, as agreed by the Commission and published by the

Transporter from time to time:

4.3.1 Issue scheduled reads to Registered Shipper (including estimate reads) within 7 working

days.

4.3.2 98% of all out-of-cycle reads will be processed within 3 working days.

4.3.3 Issue annual meter read schedule to Shippers

4.3.4 Provide 6 meter reads (4 scheduled read visits and 2 estimate reads) at gas points with

credit meters where the annual quantity < 73,000 kWh

4.3.5 Provide 12 meter reads (12 scheduled read visits) at gas points with credit meters where

the annual quantity >= 73,000 kWh

4.3.6 Achieve 80% or greater, of actual readings for scheduled meter reading visits. This

metric will include customer readings received during the meter reading time period. The

level of estimation is dependent on the success in gaining access to the meter at the end

users site. The Transporter needs the support of Shippers in achieving this target with

regard to the end user site access arrangements and advising the Transporter of Meter

Reads provided to Shippers by end users.

4.3.7 Achieve 98% actual meter reading performance for gas points on the monthly read

schedule.

4.3.8 Achieve 97% of four scheduled read visits.

4.3.9 100% achievement of a minimum of two scheduled read visits.

4.3.10 At least one actual reading will be recorded for 98% of all gas points with a meter fitted

per calendar year. This will include actual meter readings received by the Transporter

from either customers, Shippers or during other metering activity.

Documents

MDS Procedures Version 3.0 - Gas Networks · MDS Procedures Version 3.0 Page 4 2nd December, 2008 “Read Cycle Schedule” is the term used to describe the order and frequency at