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Advanced Metering

Smart Meters Questions & Answers How AMI Works What to Expect The Advantages of AMI   Q & A: Advanced Metering Infrastructure

Q: What is AMI?

A: AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure and is an automated system using smart meters and two-way communications to send and collect information from the meter. AMI will allow EnergyUnited to collect usage information accurately, efficiently, and economically without a monthly visit to your home or property to manually read the meter.

Q: Will my meter be replaced with a new AMI meter?

A: Yes, each meter will be replaced with a new AMI meter - a digital meter which will contain a communications device to transmit the information.

Q: When will my meter be replaced?

A: EnergyUnited plans to have all meters replaced within a three-year period beginning in July 2009. Our engineering department has analyzed and scheduled areas for deployment to ensure optimal efficiency of the project. AMI deployment information will be provided in our member newsletter Connect, our website, www.energyunited.com, and outbound calls will be made to each member prior to the replacement of their meter.

Q: Will someone come to my home to replace the meter? Do I need to be at home?

A: EnergyUnited has authorized TeamSTS, our current meter reading contractor, to install the new AMI meters. Each technician will have proper photo identification and their vehicles will be clearly marked with the TeamSTS logo. It is not necessary for you to be present during the replacement process. If you are not at the location, a door hanger will be left advising you that the installation process was completed. If for any reason, we are unable to complete the replacement process, the door hanger will have instructions to contact EnergyUnited.

Q: Will my power be out while the meter is replaced?

A: Yes, it will be necessary to interrupt your service for a short period of time while the transition is completed. Generally the interruption should last no more than 5 minutes.

Q: Are you sure you will be able to replace my meter?

A: Yes, in most cases the replacement process will be completed without any problems. However, in some isolated cases, some repairs may be needed before the replacement can be completed. If identified during a pre-inspection, you will be notified of any problems and asked to have the repairs completed, at your expense before the transition can be completed. However, if TeamSTS identifies necessary repairs during the replacement process, these repairs will be completed at EnergyUnited's expense so that power may be restored in a timely manner.

Q: Can the AMI meter interfere with my home security system, garage door opener, or any electronic equipment?

A: No, the AMI technology should not interfere with any electronic equipment.

Q: Will the meter readers continue to visit my location?

A: No, this new system will not require a monthly visit to your location to obtain the meter readings. However, EnergyUnited or an authorized representative will continue to periodically visit your location to inspect our facilities for proper operation, look for any unsafe or hazardous conditions and perform service work or various maintenance tasks. In addition, EnergyUnited may conduct spot checks of meter readings to verify that the AMI unit is working properly.

Q: What if I don't want my meter to be replaced? Do I have a choice?

A: All meters will be transitioned to AMI meters over the next three years. We are very excited about this new process and believe that our members will see the benefits as we will be better equipped to answer their questions, increase reliability, and aid in service restoration efforts.

Q: I would like to speak to an EnergyUnited representative about the AMI process. Who can I contact?

A: You may contact Customer Care at 800.522.3793 or email us at answers@energyunited.com.