Smart Meter FAQs
What is a smart meter?
Smart meters measure electricity use, just as traditional meters do; however, they are capable of sending information to the utility, and receiving information in return. The cooperative utilizes our existing infrastructure by transmitting this data over the power lines.
How are privacy & my smart meter data managed?
Protecting our members’ information is a top priority. Randolph EMC treats each member’s personal information and data as confidential, including the energy use data collected by smart meters. Using power lines to transfer data is a secure method for collecting information and the cooperative will progressively update our system protection as it becomes available.
In addition, members will enjoy added privacy because it will not be necessary for a meter reader to visit your home to take a reading each month, but rather just once per year.
Can smart meters help control my costs?
Smart meters are capable of providing your energy use data hourly. Initially customer service representatives will be able to access this information to help you understand your energy use. Eventually, this information will be available to members through a web portal, so that participating members can monitor their energy to make smart decisions and control
energy costs.
Will smart meters make meter reading more convenient?
Smart meters allow REMC to read your meter without setting foot on your property and without interrupting your schedule. To be sure that your meter is functioning properly, REMC will take a physical reading from the meter, in person, at least once per year.
Can smart meters help pinpoint power outages?
In the future, smart meters will help us improve your service by giving us the ability to pinpoint power outages and restore your power faster.
Are smart meters available to all REMC customers?
Smart meters will be installed for all REMC members by the end of 2012.
Will installation disrupt my schedule?
You do not need to be present for the meter upgrade, but REMC will need unobstructed access to the meter(s). A brief power outage will occur during installation. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
How long does it take to install a smart meter?
It takes approximately 15 minutes to install the smart meter under normal conditions. The upgrade will take place between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
With smart meters being read remotely, what will happen to REMC’s meter readers?
Although a meter reader will no longer be reading the meter each month, REMC will still need to have access to meters for safety and regular maintenance. REMC employees currently working as meter readers will have new opportunities within the cooperative that have come about as a result of implementing this new smart meter technology. REMC has no layoffs planned for cooperative employees.
Will my rates increase because of this project?
The meter replacement will not have an effect on rates. When researching this project, we placed an emphasis on how long it would take the meters to pay for themselves under our current rate structure. The investment in smart meter technology offers a good payback for the membership in less than seven years. The cooperativewill see significant cost savings with our new ability to perform tasks remotely.
My bill increased right after the AMR meter was installed, is the new meter accurate?
It is important to note that there are any number of reasons that could cause higher energy use, such as a change in the weather or a new appliance. However, the cooperative routinely tests the functionality of meters and has manufacturers test data that we will happily provide. Please contact your local office for this data, as well as a date-stamped photo of the reading on your previous meter when it was changed out. A customer service representative will also be able to provide you with daily information to help identify any recent changes in your energy use.
When my meter was changed, I believe I may have experienced a power surge that damaged my equipment.
Changing the meter should not create a surge condition anymore than the power being interrupted during a brief power outage. Our employees make every effort to perform the meter change-out without mishap. Installers knock on the door before they exchange a meter to give anyone at home the opportunity to turn off or disconnect any items they wish. Please contact your local office for assistance with this matter.
