How To Fix EL173 - Meter reading reason '&1' not permissible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EL - IS-U meter reading data processing

• Message number: 173

• Message text: Meter reading reason '&1' not permissible

What causes this issue?

You can only specify meter reading reasons used for installed registers
and for which it makes sense to check whether a register may be
supressed. Other possibilities include the meter reading reasons that
trigger billing.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

The following meter reading reasons are permitted in Tabelle V_TE611:
01 - Periodic meter reading
02 - Interim meter reading with billing
03 - Final meter reading: move-in/out
05 - Service territory transfer meter reading
06 - Move-in meter reading
07 - Service territory transfer without billing
09 - Interim meter reading
10 - Control meter reading
13 - Meter reading at installation disconnection
18 - Meter reading at reconnection
22 - Meter reading at billing disconnection
24 - Replacement installation
25 - Replacement removal
26 - Change of contract

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EL173 - Meter reading reason '&1' not permissible ?

  The SAP error message EL173, which states "Meter reading reason '&1' not permissible," typically occurs in the context of utility billing and meter reading processes. This error indicates that the specified meter reading reason (represented by '&1') is not valid or allowed in the current context.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Meter Reading Reason: The meter reading reason provided does not exist in the system or is not configured correctly.
  Configuration Issues: The meter reading reason may not be assigned to the relevant meter reading type or may not be allowed for the specific meter.
  Business Rules: Certain business rules or restrictions may prevent the use of specific meter reading reasons for certain types of meters or readings.
  Data Entry Errors: There may be a typographical error in the meter reading reason entered by the user.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings in SAP (transaction code SPRO) and navigate to the relevant area for meter reading reasons.
  Ensure that the meter reading reason you are trying to use is defined and active.
  
  
  
  Validate Meter Reading Reason:
  
  Verify that the meter reading reason is valid for the specific meter and reading type you are working with.
  Check if the meter reading reason is assigned to the correct meter reading type.
  
  
  
  Review Business Rules:
  
  Consult with your business process owner or SAP functional consultant to understand any business rules that may restrict the use of certain meter reading reasons.
  
  
  
  Correct Data Entry:
  
  Double-check the input for any typographical errors or incorrect codes. Ensure that the meter reading reason is entered correctly.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for additional context on the specific meter reading reason and its permissible uses.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making any changes, perform a test to ensure that the error no longer occurs when attempting to enter the meter reading.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like EL31 (for meter reading) or EL37 (for meter reading history) to check the details related to meter readings.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the meter reading operation.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant for further investigation.