How To Fix EL691 - Cannot delete meter reading - install./removal reading already entered

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 691

• Message text: Cannot delete meter reading - install./removal reading already entered

What causes this issue?

You have performed a move-in for the installation or delivery date (or a
move-out for the removal date). At the same time, you attempted to
delete the existing meter reading in the system. This is not possible,
since otherwise no meter reading for the device installation, delivery
or removal would exist.

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?

You can retain or change the exsiting meter reading but you cannot
delete it.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EL691 - Cannot delete meter reading - install./removal reading already entered ?

  The SAP error message EL691 indicates that you are trying to delete a meter reading, but the system has detected that an installation or removal reading has already been entered for that meter. This is a common issue in SAP IS-U (Industry Solution for Utilities) when dealing with meter readings.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because:
  
  Installation/Removal Reading Exists: The system has a record of an installation or removal reading that is linked to the meter reading you are trying to delete. This is a safeguard to ensure data integrity, as deleting a meter reading that is associated with an installation or removal could lead to inconsistencies in the billing and reporting processes.
  Data Integrity Rules: SAP enforces certain rules to maintain the integrity of the data, especially in utility billing scenarios where accurate readings are crucial.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Readings: 
  
  Go to the relevant transaction (e.g., transaction code EL31 for meter readings) and check if there are any installation or removal readings associated with the meter in question.
  You can also use transaction EL20 to view the meter reading documents and see if there are any linked readings.
  
  
  
  Delete Installation/Removal Reading:
  
  If you determine that the installation or removal reading is no longer needed, you can delete it first. Use the appropriate transaction (e.g., EL31 or EL20) to delete the installation or removal reading.
  After deleting the installation/removal reading, you should be able to delete the meter reading without encountering the error.
  
  
  
  Consult with Business Process Owner:
  
  If you are unsure about deleting the installation or removal reading, consult with your business process owner or a functional consultant to ensure that it is appropriate to do so.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  Use transaction codes like EL31 (for meter reading entry) or EL20 (for meter reading documents) to navigate and manage readings effectively.
  
  
  
  Check for Related Documents:
  
  Ensure that there are no other documents or processes that depend on the readings you are trying to delete. This includes billing documents, contracts, or any other related transactions.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on managing meter readings in IS-U.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete readings and that you are following the correct procedures as per your organization’s policies.
  Testing: If you are working in a development or test environment, consider testing the deletion process to understand the implications before performing it in a production environment.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EL691 error and manage your meter readings effectively.