Advanced meters link with a communications network and a central system to remotely measure utility use, connect and disconnect services, detect tampering, and identify outages. The only difference between advanced meters and the electronic meters we have been purchasing for more than 10 years is that advanced meters will record usage information more often and will have two-way communication with our system.
How do advanced meters work?
Traditional meters and automated meters record total energy consumption. We collect data from traditional meters on a monthly basis. Smart meters record and transmit your energy consumption regularly throughout the day (via a secure wireless network).
Are advanced meters new technology?
No. Approximately 69% of all meters in America are advanced meters. They have been in use around the country for nearly 50 years. Kittitas PUD is one of the last public utilities in the state to convert to an advanced meter system.
Will I be charged for my advanced meter upgrade?
No, you will not. This is a budgeted system-wide capital improvement project.
How does advanced metering benefit me?
Advanced metering is key to a more efficient electric system. The additional meter data will enable Kittitas PUD to better communicate with you regarding electricity consumption, detect outages, assist in power quality issues and respond to service requests more promptly. It will also help you make informed decisions to use electricity more efficiently.
Will I notice any changes?
You will likely not notice any changes, although you can anticipate that your monthly usage will be recorded on the same day and time each month, making it easier to more accurately compare each month's usage.
Will the advanced meter make my bills higher?
The meter itself will not cause your usage to increase or decrease. Advanced meters measure utility usage in exactly the same way as our current meters. The new meters will continue to measure only the actual amount of electricity you use.
Are advanced meters safe and accurate?
Yes, they are. Advanced meters must meet the UL 2735 Metering Standard for Electric Utility Meters, which is the same standard our current meters must meet. It is important to note that we have been using electronic meters for many years. Advanced meters will be installed and uninstalled only by trained professionals exercising standard safety precautions.
Will the communication system interfere with my home or business equipment?
Advanced meters should not adversely affect the stability or performance of your home wireless network or equipment.
What amount of radio frequency is emitted from advanced meters?
The strength of the radio frequency (RF) emitted by advanced meters is very low and intermittent. In fact, these meters only transmit for a few seconds out of every hour, totaling less than 90 seconds a day. RF emitted by these meters is well below the radio frequency limits set by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), International Committee on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These emissions occur outside your home and are well below the levels produced by other common household devices like cell phones, baby monitors, satellite TVs, and microwave ovens. Independent testing by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) concluded that even if an equivalent meter were to transmit continuously, they would still be less than 0.2% of the published exposure standards.
Will my account an usage information remain confidential?
Yes. Kittitas PUD is committed to keeping your personal information safe and secure. Only meter usage data is transmitted wirelessly, not any customer information or specifics about what is using power in your home. In addition, our Data Privacy Guidelines require that meter usage data be treated by the utility and any service provider, like AMI, as Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
Can the PUD control any devices inside my home with the advanced meter?
No. The advanced meter will only provide readings on how much electricity you use and when.
If I have questions about my meter upgrade, who can I talk to?
Please contact us through our Advanced Metering helpline at 509-571-9777 or AMIProgram@KittitasPUD.com. Be sure to include your specific questions and your contact information so we can direct your question to the employee best able to assist. We are happy to visit with you about your meter changes.
Will Kittitas PUD Provide an opt-out program?
Yes. Residential customers who meet the established requirements may choose to opt-out. Please review our Advanced Metering Opt-Out Program page for more information.
What can I do to prepare for the change?
Customers should ensure that the meter base is accessible to PUD representatives. A three-foot radius in front of the meter should be clear of all debris from the ground to three feet above the meter.
What if my meter base breaks during the change?
If the customer’s meter base is not suitable for a meter, they will be responsible for having the meter base replaced or repaired and inspected at their cost. The District will prepare a list of licensed electricians who have agreed to stock meter bases for this program. This list will be available upon request. CT meter bases are the responsibility of the District and will be replaced as necessary.
When will my meter be changed?
Kittitas PUD is currently reviewing bids for this project and will update installation timelines after October 2023. Keep checking the website for updates.