KEM or KSEM?
KOSTAL makes it easy

The right energy meter for every installation

Often, the
KOSTAL Energy Meter is all you need

Many installers routinely opt for the KOSTAL Smart Energy Meter (KSEM) when fitting KOSTAL systems. This has long been a safe choice – but it is not always necessary for many systems.

In particular, for a typical system featuring the PLENTICORE G3 and ENECTOR G2, the more affordable KOSTAL Energy Meter (KEM) is often sufficient. This is because the system architecture has changed with the new generation of devices: the PLENTICORE G3 now handles the intelligent control of the wallbox.

KEM or KSEM: A guide to help you decide

In earlier systems, the KSEM not only measured energy flows but also performed key tasks in controlling the wallbox. This is why it became an integral part of system planning for many installers.

With the PLENTICORE G3 and ENECTOR G2, things are different: the inverter controls the wallbox directly. The energy meter provides the measurement data required for this.

This means that, with this combination, a KSEM is no longer required. The more cost-effective KEM fulfils the necessary tasks. You can find out more in our factsheet: KOSTAL Energy Meter Decision-Making Guide

When is the KEM the right choice?

The KOSTAL Energy Meter is suitable for typical installations with a PLENTICORE inverter. It measures three-phase energy flows in real time and transmits the measurement data to the inverter via a pre-configured Modbus RTU interface.

Among other things, the KEM supports:

24-hour domestic consumption measurement
transmission of the required measurement data to the inverter
the combination of PLENTICORE G3, PIKO CI G2 and ENECTOR G2
systems with a direct connected load of up to 100 A

In short: for a typical modern system, the KEM is often the simpler and more cost-effective solution.

When is the KSEM required?

The KOSTAL Smart Energy Meter remains the right choice if the system configuration requires additional functions or extended connection options.

This applies in particular to:

PLENTICORE G2 with ENECTOR G2
PLENTICORE G2 or G3 with ENECTOR G1
PLENTICORE G2 in a network of devices
Systems with PIKO CI

The KSEM has its own web interface as well as additional computing power and supports applications that go beyond the basic functions of the KEM.

In short: the KSEM is the right choice for systems requiring extended functionality.

KEM or KSEM: A decision-making guide

Equipment configuration and range of functions

Equipment combination	KEM	KSEM
1 x PLENTICORE G2 or G3	Recommended	Also possible
1 x PLENTICORE G2 or G3 with battery storage	Recommended	Also possible
PLENTICORE G3 in a device network	Recommended	Also possible
PLENTICORE G3 with ENECTOR G2	Recommended	Also possible
PLENTICORE G2 with ENECTOR G2	-	Yes
PLENTICORE G2 or G3 with ENECTOR G1	-	Yes
PLENTICORE G2 in a network of units	-	Yes
PIKO CI – one or more inverters	-	Yes
PIKO CI for domestic connections over 63A with transformer metering	-	Yes

Simpler planning and more cost-effective quotes

A KSEM offers many possibilities – but not all of them are required in every installation. By selecting an energy meter that matches the actual system configuration, you can avoid unnecessary costs and offer your customers a more cost-effective overall solution.

You should therefore check the following at the system planning stage:

Which generation of inverter is being used?
Is it a single standard system or a more complex system configuration?
Are functions required that go beyond the basic functions of the KEM?

This transforms a standard selection process into a needs-based planning approach. Find out more in our factsheet: KOSTAL Energy Meter Decision-Making Guide

As many energy meters as necessary

The KSEM remains the high-performance solution for more complex systems. However, it is no longer necessary for many current installations using the PLENTICORE G3.

Particularly when combining PLENTICORE G3, battery storage and ENECTOR G2, the KEM provides all the necessary basic functions. This makes planning simpler and the system more cost-effective – without compromising on the relevant functions. The KEM is often sufficient.