Advanced Meters
Advanced Meters use state-of-the-art meter technology that provides two-way communications between your meter and PWC using secure wireless network technology. This is known as Advanced Metering Infrastructure or AMI.
Advanced Meters make it possible to ‘talk’ to PWC over a secure communications system. This exchange of information allows us to give you better service, such as the ability to provide faster power outage notice so that repairs can begin quickly and faster response to service requests like connections. Plus, you’ll have timely information about your energy and/or water consumption use so you can make decisions that can lower your bill.
Benefits
- Faster, more accurate detection/more responsive resolution to issues such as a power outage or water leaks.
- Enhanced access to your account information so you can make informed decision about your utility services.
- Remote meter reading which reduces traffic in your neighborhood and the need for PWC personnel to enter your property.
- Expanded customer options including pre-paid services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the radio frequency from Advanced Meters pose a health risk?
Wireless technology is prevalent in our every day lives. Everything from cell phones to wireless internet routers to baby monitors and garage door openers use radio frequency to operate. The Federal Communications Commission sets radio frequency levels for AMI meters and the meters used by PWC will comply with the FCC standards. Radio frequency levels measured from advanced meters are well below the approved limits established for the general public.
Radio frequency from Advanced Meters have been studied and found to emit very low fields and then only intermittently. Any exposure to humans would be extremely small. Below is a comparison of advanced meters to common household appliances:
| Source | Exposure Level |
| FM radio or TV broadcast signal | 0.005 |
| Advanced Meters at 10 feet | 0.1 |
| Cyber Cafe (Wi-Fi) | 10-20 |
| Laptop Computer | 10-20 |
| Cell Phone held up to ear | 30 – 10,000 |
| Walkie-talkie | 500 – 42,000 |
| Microwave at 2-inches from door | 5,000 |
How do I read my new meter if I want to monitor my usage?
Reading an advanced meter is easy when following the steps in this How to Read Your Advanced Meters document.
Will the communication system interfere with my home or business equipment?
Advanced Meters should not adversely affect the stability or performance of home wireless networks. The FCC regulates all electronics to prevent one type of electronic equipment from interfering with other electronic and wireless devices that operate in the same frequency band.
Will a meter reader still come to my home to read the meter?
No, but PWC employees will continue to need access to meters for periodic safety and quality assurance inspections and maintenance.
Will advanced meters automatically notify PWC when there is an electrical outage?
Advanced meters will provide information that will help alert PWC about outages. However, we still ask customers to call and let us know when they are experiencing an outage in their home or neighborhood. When customers call, they can also provide us with information about downed power lines or anything else they may observe that could help PWC’s restoration efforts. The same goes for a water outage of any kind.
How accurate are the meters?
Advanced Meters are extremely accurate and are subject to strict design standards when they are manufactured. PWC has a procedure to select and test meters before and after putting them into service to confirm they operate satisfactorily. In addition, all advanced meters must meet standards and requirements set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Because Advanced Meters are not mechanical meters , they will maintain their accuracy over a longer period time because there are no moving parts to degrade.
Will my new meter make my bills higher?
Advanced meters are likely to be more accurate than the analog (or mechanical) meters they replaced. Studies have shown that mechanical meters are likely to be slower because of older mechanisms that have slowed down or even stopped. A 2015 Meter Accuracy Evaluation performed by Black and Veatch, found that aging mechanical meters (15+ years old) can be 5-10% slower than advanced meters, resulting in less accurate readings.
Will my account and usage information remain confidential?
PWC’s systems are in compliance with standards on cyber security and privacy. These include standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Our systems also comply with federal and state regulations. The meters and the associated communications system are encrypted and equipped with security features to prevent unauthorized access.
Will PWC be able to tell what I’m doing in the privacy of my home?
No, PWC will collect how much energy and water a customer uses, but we’ll have no way of knowing what appliance he/she was using during that time.
