Smart Energy Meters 101

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.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

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