As can be seen in this slide, with all the added communications, the typical meter is not just a meter that measures energy. Smart meter is a very generic and subjective term. A common description for a smart meter is that it is a meter that measures energy and can have one-way communication for automated meter reading. This could go all the way up to controlling the smart grid, and could also include a remote disconnect at the house. It could also include home automation where appliances are programmed to turn on or off at certain periods of time, depending on usage. One of the motivations for smart metering and smart grid for the consumer is more visibility into consumption, including sub-metering in the home revealing how much an air conditioner or refrigerator is costing to operate on a daily or even hourly basis. That will increase awareness and reduce consumption and therefore lower the bill. Also, it gives a clear and accurate invoicing based on consumption. A smart meter can detect a failure and automatically fix or report it. Smart metering can also take advantage of multi-tariff and remote load management, a method of paying for buy time depending on how loaded the grid is. From the utility company standpoint, the smart grid can be used to optimize the network, automate metering and invoicing. Also, in regions where there are prepaid services, the utility company can automatically or remotely disconnect bad payers. They can also detect tampering activities and perform a remote disconnect, which gives them more flexibility for controlling the grid.