FAQ
TL;DR: New Elektrometal EM-eG4 smart gas meters report remotely once per day; “communicates with the mobile network once a day.” Home Assistant integration requires utility-approved access or EX-rated hardware. DIY radio/pulse hacks won’t fit. [Elektroda, Bogus105, post #21741050]
Why it matters: You want near‑real‑time gas usage in Home Assistant without violating safety rules or voiding approvals, and this FAQ shows compliant paths.
Quick Facts
- EM‑eG4 replacements are being rolled out widely; built‑in module sends daily readings via mobile network. [Elektroda, Bogus105, post #21741050]
- PSG currently blocks third‑party access to communication ports; availability and format of user data are “planned” but unknown. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21760489]
- Polish gas meters’ OPTOGAZ IEC 62056‑21 port speaks Smart‑Gas (ST‑IGG‑0201:2023), not DLMS/COSEM. [Elektroda, raks0, post #21756546]
- Any device near the meter must meet ATEX/EX approval and be utility‑approved. [Elektroda, vanmarcin, post #21755680]
- Hobby paths discussed: CC1101 at 868 MHz with ESP32/ESPHome custom components. Proceed only with approvals. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21752558]
Can I keep using my old reed‑switch pulse sensor with EM‑eG4?
No. Users report the EM‑eG4 lacks a compatible magnetic/light pulser and the prior pulser (e.g., Metrix NI‑3) does not fit. The meter uses an internal communication module instead. Attempting to add non‑approved hardware may breach EX rules and utility policy. “The new meter’s pulser won’t work.” Consult your gas company before any changes. [Elektroda, Bogus105, post #21741050]
Does the EM‑eG4 have an optical port I can read?
Forum contributors indicate meters in Poland expose an OPTOGAZ optical interface following IEC 62056‑21, but it speaks the Smart‑Gas protocol (ST‑IGG‑0201:2023), not DLMS/COSEM. That affects tooling and decoders. If present, reading it still requires an EX‑rated optical head and utility approval. [Elektroda, raks0, post #21756546]
Is third‑party access enabled today?
Not yet. PSG stated all communication ports on new gas meters are blocked to third parties. They plan to expose eGas data, but timing and delivery method (e.g., wM‑Bus or API) remain undecided. Expect delays and design your integration with this constraint. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21760489]
How often does EM‑eG4 send readings over the network?
Reports indicate once per day via the built‑in mobile module. This cadence limits near‑real‑time dashboards. Plan Home Assistant automations around daily aggregates, not minute‑level flows. “Communicates with the mobile network once a day.” [Elektroda, Bogus105, post #21741050]
Can I intercept LoRa/GSM or sniff the radio to get data?
Users tried radio approaches with CC1101 at 868 MHz and ESPHome, but success is unconfirmed. One user was told by the manufacturer, “only a GSM module,” while access remains blocked. Unauthorized interception may violate laws or terms. Treat radio sniffing as experimental and obtain permissions first. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21752558]
What is ATEX (EX), and why does it matter here?
ATEX defines equipment standards for explosive atmospheres. Anything installed in the meter enclosure or hazardous zone must be EX‑approved and utility‑approved. A camera or non‑EX sensor in the box is non‑compliant and risks penalties or removal. “There is one condition: ATEX.” [Elektroda, vanmarcin, post #21755680]
Is image‑based reading with a battery camera allowed?
A user proposed a battery ESP module plus camera, but confirmed it is against regulations without EX approval and utility consent. Do not place non‑EX devices in or near the hazardous zone. Seek a sanctioned path instead. [Elektroda, vanmarcin, post #21755680]
What is ESPHome, ESP32, and CC1101 in this context?
ESPHome is firmware for ESP8266/ESP32 that simplifies sensors in Home Assistant. ESP32 is a Wi‑Fi/BLE MCU board. CC1101 is a sub‑GHz transceiver (e.g., 868 MHz) used for hobby telemetry. Users tested these for meter listening, pending protocol and approval hurdles. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21752558]
Does the EM‑eG4 support DLMS/COSEM over OPTO?
No, according to a contributor, the OPTOGAZ interface uses Smart‑Gas (ST‑IGG‑0201:2023). DLMS/COSEM tools will not decode it. Expect different framing and authentication. “It works with the Smart‑Gas protocol and not DLMS/COSEM.” [Elektroda, raks0, post #21756546]
Is there an EX‑rated optical head I can buy?
One user cited the ELGAS HIE‑03 optical head as an EX‑rated option, though sourcing and approvals are uncertain. They are awaiting PSG’s response before purchasing. Availability can be limited after some models were discontinued. Validate EX certificates and get written consent first. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21755824]
Will there be an API or wM‑Bus for Home Assistant?
PSG reportedly plans to make eGas data available but has not confirmed the channel (API vs. wM‑Bus) or timeline. Design interim dashboards that accept daily totals, then switch to the official feed when released. This avoids rework. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21756735]
What’s the safest path to integrate EM‑eG4 with Home Assistant today?
Use the utility’s official platform or future API when available. Avoid invasive hardware. If permitted, mount EX‑rated accessories only with written approval. Mirror daily readings into Home Assistant as a stopgap. “Ports are blocked… access planned.” [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21760489]
How do I request compliant access to my meter data?
- Ask your gas provider for written permission and the approved interface (API, OPTO, or gateway).
- If OPTO is allowed, source an EX‑rated optical head and provide its certificates.
- Confirm installation location and integration steps before purchasing hardware. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21756735]
Can I install a private gas meter with pulses inside my home?
A user wished to replace the utility meter, but that is not acceptable. Only the gas company can install or approve meters on the service line. Adding a parallel private meter requires a licensed professional and utility consent. Otherwise, it violates rules. [Elektroda, vanmarcin, post #21755680]
What failure modes should I plan for?
Edge case: all ports remain blocked for months, leaving only daily summaries. Another risk: non‑EX hardware in the enclosure triggers compliance issues. Plan dashboards for 1 report/day and avoid hazardous‑area devices without approvals. [Elektroda, jacekiwanski10, post #21760489]
What did the manufacturer say about extra interfaces?
A caller reported support said, “This gas meter has nothing, only a GSM module.” Treat this as model‑specific and subject to utility configuration. Always verify with your gas provider before buying hardware. [Elektroda, vanmarcin, post #21756492]
