Yes that other link and the comment from @JaneatGlow suggest that the data must be encrypted.
In the other thread these sorts of data transmissions were described as being to a “Head End”.
I’ll also repeat my comment in that thread (and update it a bit) - this is my understanding of the topology;
Terms
- CAD - Consumer Access Device
- IHD - In Home Display (a type of CAD)
- Head End - SMSO or DCC
- WAN - Wide Area Network - The method used to transfer Meter data to supplier (eventually) via Head End.
- PAN - Personal Area Network - A zigbee network connecting the Meters, CAD/IHD and up to 5 remote load control switches.
- Comms Hub - A device that creates / controls the PAN and access the WAN collecting the
Data flows
Meter → PAN → Comms Hub → WAN → Head End
Head End → WAN → Comms Hub
Meter → PAN → Comms Hub → PAN → CAD/IHD
Meter → PAN → Comms Hub → PAN → CAD/IHD → WAN → 3rd Party (Glow device)
I suspect the Comms Hub may well be built into the CAD/IHD in many cases.