PC Electric Meter Change-Out Program FAQ's
WHAT IS THE PC ELECTRIC METER CHANGE-OUT PROGRAM?
This system-wide program will replace existing electric meters with a new, more efficient meters. Older meters are mechanical devices that wear with usage. The installation of new meters will lead to more efficient monitoring of electric consumption throughout PC Electric’s service area.
WHY IS PC ELECTRIC INSTALLING NEW METERS?
PC Electric is in the process of upgrading its technology to serve customers better. Many of our existing electric meters are 35 – 40 years old and use technology that is becoming obsolete.
HOW DOES THE METER READING SYSTEM WORK?
The tower-based reading system provides daily meter readings from each account and reduces the costs associated with meter reading. Each remote transmits readings using radio frequency (RF) to our main office. Each meter has a unique identification number that ensures that only your reading is being assigned to your account. Your account will continue to be billed in the manner that it is presently. The meter reading system will improve service to all members.
I HAVE SOLAR POWER AT MY HOME. WILL THE NEW METERS WORK WITH THAT?
Yes. These meters will record “net metering” the same as existing mechanical or electronic meters do today.
HOW SAFE ARE THESE METERS?
The new meters being installed have been deemed by the Food and Drug Administration, Federal Communications Commission, and World Health Organization that RF technology is safe. If you have concerns about medical devices and radio frequency, please consult your physician.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF THE NEW SYSTEM?
This upgrade to the PC Electric infrastructure will help us and our members work together toward a better energy future. The new meters will help us achieve improved efficiency, reliability, and, most of all, a world-class customer service experience.
In addition, the new system will help eradicate human error and lower fuel costs associated with manual meter reading. The green portion of this system will also help reduce our carbon footprint by reducing our fuel consumption.
DOES THIS MEAN NO MORE METER READERS?
No, you will still see us in your neighborhood, just not as often. PC Electric service personnel will visit your property for routine service, maintenance, or repair. We will continue to respond to electric emergencies.
WILL THE RF INTERFERE WITH MY TELEVISION, CORDLESS PHONE, OR OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES?
No, radio transmissions occur on a licensed frequency very different from those used by television signals, cordless phones, and other electronic devices. There are no risks or hazards from the equipment.
DO THE NEW METERS COST ME TO OPERATE?
No. PC Electric meters do not add load to the member’s home. The meters are powered by energy provided by PC Electric and ONLY monitor the energy consumed by the member’s home.
IS PC ELECTRIC’S METER NETWORK SECURE?
Yes. These new meters are safe and secure. These meters offer two-way communications between the meter at your home or business and PC Electric.
IS IT EASY FOR SOMEONE TO TAMPER WITH MY METER AND ENERGY USE?
These new digital meters can detect tampering at the time of occurrence. Tampering or energy theft is then recorded and transmitted to PC Electric.
WHO OWNS THE METER ON MY HOME OR BUSINESS?
PC Electric owns the electrical meter and the line that runs from the member’s premises to the pole. The property owner owns the meter enclosure box and all of the wiring in the home or business.
WHO WILL BE GETTING NEW METERS?
All PC Electric members will receive new meters as part of our infrastructure upgrade.
IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO AS A CUSTOMER TO MAKE THE INSTALLATION SMOOTHER?
Since the actual electric meters are located outside your home or building, you will not need to be present during the installation. Please make sure our installer has adequate access to the meters.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF I RECEIVED A NEW METER?
When the technician has completed the installation of the meter, they will leave a door hanger on your door letting you know of the exchange.
If our technicians were not successful in replacing the meter, a door hanger will be left on your door explaining that the installation was not completed and the reason why. The door hanger will provide you with a number to call to schedule the installation. When calling to schedule this appointment, please provide the customer service representative with your account number and service address.
WHAT WORK IS INVOLVED AT MY PROPERTY?
Generally, the meter technician will locate your electric meter, remove the old type and install a new meter. The technician will obtain a final reading from the old meter that he removed and clean up the work area.
HOW LONG SHOULD THE INSTALLATION UPGRADE TAKE?
Under normal circumstances, the installation will take approximately 10 minutes. The electricity will be turned off for about 5 minutes until the meter is changed.
IS THERE A COST TO OUR CUSTOMER?
There is no cost to our customer for the upgrade of PC Electric’s meters. The co-op is responsible for the installation, inlet and outlet meter couplings, meter, and remote device.
WHO WILL BE INSTALLING THE UPGRADE?
PC Electric has contracted Honeywell technicians to undertake this project. The contractors will have Honeywell uniforms, and the vehicles will be marked “Licensed Contractor for PC Electric” When the technician is in your area, you will receive a One Call Now automated voice message notifying you that we are in your area changing the meters. You can also visit our webpage at www.pcemc.org to see if we will be in your area during a particular week.
