The ZigBee Alliance and the European Smart Metering Industry Group are working together to define interoperable communications standards for smart metering technology across the European Union. The ZigBee Smart Energy public application profile is the first open standard to be endorsed by ESMIG. The ZigBee Alliance is a global ecosystem of companies creating wireless solutions for use in energy management, commercial and consumer applications, and ESMIG is the organization for smart metering in Europe.

ESMIG members determined that the ZigBee Alliance and its ZigBee Smart Energy provide a solid, open standards approach to smart metering communication. ESMIG provides impartial expertise to key stakeholders including EU institutions, EU Member State governments, authorities, regulators, electric, gas and water utility providers on all aspects related to Smart Metering. The ZigBee Alliance and ESMIG will collaborate and identify where ZigBee Smart Energy can be rolled out across the 27 Member States of the EU. The two organizations will evaluate ways to maximize the benefits of a standardized smart metering program for consumers, utility service providers and the environment.

There are an estimated 2,000 electric, water and gas utility service providers in the EU. Each has unique needs that will require standardized approaches to deliver the numerous efficiency, cost savings and environmental benefits expected from smart metering.

"ESMIG is working to speed the adoption of smart metering in Europe and ZigBee Smart Energy can play a strong role in helping Europe achieve its smart metering goals today," said Bob Heile, chairman of the ZigBee Alliance. "ZigBee Smart Energy was designed to work in any country. It provides a standardized approach that can reduce implementation costs as well as the flexibility for customization by utilities."