Like many tools and equipment, energy meters are getting a modern upgrade. Increasingly, traditional analog energy meters are being swapped out with new smart meters. But what is a smart meter and how does it work? Read this blog to learn more and discover how your business could benefit.
What is a smart meter?
Traditional electricity and natural gas meters measure the total consumption of energy in your home each month.
Smart meters do that, plus much more. Instead of recording your energy usage monthly, smart meters record your energy consumption every fifteen minutes. They also wirelessly communicate with displays located in your business to let you know how much energy you’re using and when. Finally, smart meters “talk” directly to your utility to inform them of a power outage or other energy-related issues you may experience.
What are the benefits of using a smart meter?
Because your smart meter takes a meter reading every fifteen minutes, it provides a much more accurate picture of your business’ energy consumption than a traditional energy meter. Traditional meters estimate your energy usage based on your average energy use throughout the month. A more accurate reading could result in a lower monthly bill.
When your meter tells you how much energy you’re using and when, you can monitor and reduce your energy usage during on-peak hours when demand on the energy grid is highest. Curbing your usage during on-peak hours can reduce your overall energy spend and helps you become more efficient.
Since your smart meter communicates directly with your utility, it immediately notifies them of power outages, service issues and more, allowing for faster service and repairs. Your meter reading can also be done automatically through your smart meter, which means you don’t have to accommodate a service technician to come to your business to read your meter.
How do I get a smart meter?
Your utility is responsible for updating and maintaining energy meters. If your utility is upgrading your meter, they will contact you with more information. To learn if your business is eligible for an upgrade, contact your utility.
Our energy experts are here to help! If you are a current customer and have questions about smart meters or your business’ energy, call your Account Management Team at 1-888-924-7111. If you’re interested in joining the AEP Energy family, click here.
AEP Energy makes no guarantee regarding the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of this report or any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational and illustrative purposes only. Neither this report nor any information herein should be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. The customer assumes the entire risk related to its use of any information presented herein, and whether or how the customer utilizes any such information is entirely the customer’s responsibility. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties of whatever kind or nature related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information provided herein.
Is finding a renewable energy solution on your business’ list of New Year’s resolutions? Sustainability is increasingly top-of-mind for many customers and employees. But between the many responsibilities of small business owners and leaders, dedicating time to figuring out how to achieve your sustainability goals can get lost in the shuffle. AEP Energy can help. …
If you keep an eye on natural gas prices, you’ve likely noticed an increase over the past few months. So what’s driving this pricing trend? And is this the new norm? Read below for a few highlights from our latest Customer Insights article. Factors Driving Current Prices · LNG Demand – The global market has …
AEP Energy Reward Store is filled with a variety of energy-saving products for your home. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient while saving you time and money.
Collect Reward Dollars each month ($5/electric, $3/natural gas) for simply being an AEP Energy Customer.
Shop AEP Energy Reward Store for energy-efficient products like smart thermostats, LED lighting, and more.
Redeem your accumulated Reward Dollars and enjoy smart solutions for your home.
We're Sorry
Brandi Nye, Managing Director of Business Solutions
Brandi is an expert in her field with professional experience in the sustainability industry. Not only does Brandi have solid base knowledge, but she continues to grow her acumen through various learning and development experiences. Brandi is a creative and thoughtful utility professional with expertise in regulatory and utility operations.