The new Dunfermline research and development base of EDMI, one of the world’s leading smart meter providers, was officially opened yesterday by Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael.
The Pitreavie Business Park facility is the global research and development centre for EDMI’s smart gas solutions, focusing on a range of ultrasonic meters using state of the art technologies.
Mr Carmichael said: “This is a boost for the Scottish economy and a vote of confidence for the workforce and skills base in Fife.
“This is clearly an exceptional centre, developed by a company making the most of the opportunities within the UK economy.
“It underlines the UK Government’s commitment to making this country a great place for energy firms to do business, develop new technologies, recruit the best technicians and engineers and ensure we remain a world leader in research and development.”
EDMI, which produces a range of premium metering products, advanced infrastructure and energy management systems, has been operating in the UK since 2004 and has installed more than 600,000 smart meters.
Over the past three years it has expanded, prompted by the UK Government’s decision to roll-out 53 million smart electricity and gas meters in 30 million homes and small businesses by the end of 2020.
EDMI will design, manufacture and supply the communications hub for northern England and all of Scotland which will enable communication with electricity meters, gas meters and the in-home displays allowing consumers to effectively monitor and manage energy usage.
Graeme Lees, EDMI executive director for gas and water, said: “The opening of our new gas research and development centre underlines EDMI’s commitment to investing in future technologies, demonstrating EDMI’s drive to provide our customers with the most advanced products in the market.”
David Stroud, executive director for EDMI Europe, added: “We are committed to providing our customers with world-class products and services and the expansion of our infrastructure in the UK is key. It is testament to the skills and opportunities available in this region that EDMI have chosen to locate a global facility here.”
The Dunfermline EDMI base has a workforce of 12 and works closely with a number of Scottish companies who provide supporting engineering services.
Owned by the Osaki Electric Company, EDMI had a turnover of £85m last year.
* Consumers who have had smart meters in their home are more likely to trust the accuracy of their energy bills and have enough information to choose the right tariff.
Research among more than 10,000 adults showed an increasing awareness of smart meters, with one-in-10 already having one.