In Germany, 20% of the primary energy consumption is covered by natural gas. About 70% of all new buildings are equipped with natural gas heatings. On the whole, more than 100 billion cubic meters are distributed annually and repeatedly measured and then invoiced in production and distribution companies and in public utilities. A buyer of natural gas can be sure that the quantities bought were determined by verified measuring instruments. Before they are approved for verification, the patterns of the gas meters required for this purpose are metrologically tested in the laboratory on the basis of the rules and regulations in force. Type examinations are granted for the following instruments: 

• Volumetric gas meters: diaphragm gas meters, rotary displacement meters
• Nonvolumetric gas meters: turbine meters, differential pressure meters, ultrasonic meters 
• Conversion devices:Auxiliary devices (e. g. tariff devices)