Efficient, accurate and cost-effective meter reading technology
Rocky Mountain Power is always looking for ways to improve our service to you. As part of this commitment, we're installing new state-of-the-art automated meters at homes and most  businesses throughout the Wasatch Front. 

Why is Rocky Mountain Power implementing this project?
The automated meter reading technology will replace the need for our employees to have access to your home or business. It will: 

• be more cost-effective and efficient because it reduces the number of manual readings required; 
• reduce safety hazard exposures for our employees and help improve preventable and non-preventable accidents; 
• result in fewer meter access issues –we will no longer need to enter your property each month to read your meter, so there's no unlocking your gates or keeping your pets inside on meter-reading days; 
• increase billing accuracy and reduce  the need for rereads.
  

How do these new meters work?
Automated meters are equipped with radio modules that transmit meter data. A vehicle equipped with a radio receiver drives through neighborhoods and downloads information from the meters. The information is uploaded to our billing system.

Here's a step-by-step look at the process:

1. A state of the art electronic meter is installed at your home or business. These meters are accurate and use secure radio frequencies. 
2. A Rocky Mountain Power utility vehicle, equipped with a computer and a radio receiver, can read your meter from the street; there is no need for us to access your premises each month. 
3. Meter data is sent to our billing system. This technology reduces human error, so you will receive fewer estimated bills. 
4. Your monthly electricity bill is generated with the information from our billing system.
   

There will not be any interference with electronic or medical devices in your home.The meter transmits meter reads using a 900 mhz frequency. The output power of the radio is very low at 100 mW. Both the frequency and output power of the radio transmission are compliant with FCC regulations.

Has this technology been used before?Yes. By installing meters equipped with radio modules, we will be able to take full advantage of a proven technology being used by more than 100 utilities.

Who will be installing the new meters?
Itron Inc. was selected in early May to install automated meters for residential and commercial customers beginning in July 2007, with completion in June 2008. Itron Inc. has retained Honeywell to perform the physical change-out of old meters with new automated meters. These installers will be identified as Honeywell, authorized contractor for Rocky Mountain Power. 

Where will these meters be installed?
At the present time this project is stand-alone for Rocky Mountain Power and is based on the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of implementing automated meter technology on the Wasatch Front. Our metering business completed several studies to assess the viability of implementing an automated meter reading system within the company's service territory. Studies have shown that automated meter reading is economical along the Wasatch Front at this time. However, the company will evaluate the customer and economic benefits of this project, and this technology or a similar one could be implemented in other areas of the company.

What is the timing of the installation?
The project began June 26, 2007 and will continue until June 2008. At this time the projected timeline is as follows (subject to change):

Park City, June 26 - September 2, 2007
Cottonwood, September 3, 2007 - January 27, 2008
Ogden/Layton, September 17, 2007 - May 18, 2008
Salt Lake City Metro, late December 2007 - April 6, 2008
Tooele, January 14, 200 8 - May 18, 2008
American Fork, January 21, 2008 - May 18, 2008

How will I know the work has been completed?
You will receive a letter within a couple of weeks prior to installation. The actual installation will take less than ten minutes to complete. You will notice the new meters have digital displays, making them easier to read. You may also notice that you may have to reset digital clocks as a result of a brief power interruption during installation.

Will you ever need to access my meter?
Yes. Rocky Mountain Power will still need periodic access to maintain the meter, even though monthly access for meter reading will not be necessary.