Swiss measurement specialist LEM has introduced a new series of DC energy meters — DCES600 and DCES1500 — designed to meet the evolving needs of EV fast-charging and megawatt-class charging infrastructure. Tailored for high-accuracy energy billing and system management, the new meters offer precision sensing over the full charge cycle, enhanced cybersecurity, and flexible integration options.
For eeNews Europe readers involved in EV charger design, e-mobility infrastructure, or fleet electrification, this launch potentially brings a robust solution to the pressing need for legally certified, scalable DC metering in high-current charging environments.
Enabling Next-Generation EV Charging Infrastructure
The DCES600 and DCES1500 meters are engineered to support current levels up to 1500 A without derating across a temperature range of –40°C to +85°C. This ensures accurate kilowatt-hour (kWh) billing throughout the entire charging cycle, including low-current phases often seen at the end of a charge.
Both models are compatible with international metrology standards, paving the way for regulatory approval across Europe, including MID 2014/32/EU and Germany’s Eichrecht. This compliance is particularly relevant for commercial EV fleets and megawatt charging hubs where billing accuracy and traceability are critical.
LEM highlights that the meters’ full-cycle sensing performance is essential for applications like electric trucks, where energy delivery precision directly affects cost-per-kilometre. “With the introduction of the DCES600 and DCES1500, LEM enables DC charging infrastructure manufacturers to accelerate time-to-market for both fast and megawatt charging solutions, with kilowatt-hour (kWh) billing services,” the company noted.
Flexible Integration, Cybersecurity, and OEM Features
The meters connect via RS485 and come equipped with cybersecurity measures such as digital signature-based measurement authentication and secure firmware update capabilities. These features are designed to support secure remote maintenance and reduce charger operating costs over time.
LEM also offers APIs and software tools to simplify integration and testing. Optional remote display units (RDUs) expand HMI design flexibility, allowing panel or DIN-rail mounting without the need for separate communication or power lines.
Mechanically, the meters are built for high-current use, featuring reinforced housings and generous contact areas: the DCES600 includes M10 studs for 33 × 36 mm busbar contact, while the DCES1500 uses four M12 studs supporting a combined 45 × 100 mm interface.
The meters provide real-time reporting of current, voltage, temperature, and energy—data that can be used for both billing and system diagnostics to ensure thermal and electrical safety.
Applications and Availability
Target applications include:
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DC fast charging stations — the DCES600 offers a compact, accurate solution for high-turnover charging points
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Megawatt charging hubs — the DCES1500 supports heavy-duty vehicles, buses, and future ultra-high-capacity EVs
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Fleet and depot charging — both units offer operational transparency and compliance for managed charging systems
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OEM integration — modular and secure design supports advanced system monitoring and battery storage integration
Samples are available now, and full regulatory certification is expected by year-end. The DCES series will be compliant with major EU legal metrology requirements, allowing manufacturers to begin integration and certification processes immediately.
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