Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
In an effort to improve quality and provide more reliable service, Shelby Energy Cooperative is implementing an Advanced Metering Infrastructure or AMI.
AMI is a technology system that enables two-way communications with the meter. The AMI meter transmits energy data using existing power lines to the substation. The data then travels by a secure, licensed radio frequency from the substation to the cooperative office.
The new AMI meters electronically record and transmit kWh readings, peak electric demand, the date and time of energy usage, loss of power (including blinks), how long power was off and when power was restored. AMI meters do not interact with or transmit personal customer information, therefore privacy is intact.
Shelby Energy Cooperative is committed to finding new and more efficient ways to serve you, and we look forward to providing you improved customer service with the new, automated meter system.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Will the AMI meter be accurate?
A: Yes. Each meter is checked for accuracy prior to installation.
Q: Will my billing date change?
A: No. Members will see no difference in the timing of their electric bill.
Q: Must I be home when Shelby Energy installs the AMI meter?
A: If we have access to the current meter, you do not need to be home when we install the new meter.
Q: Who will install the AMI meter and how will I know if they work for Shelby Energy?
A: Installers will carry identification and have a magnetic Shelby Energy sign on their vehicles, but no one will need to enter your home.
Q: Will the AMI installation interrupt my electric service?
A: Shelby Energy will make every effort to perform the meter exchange without interrupting your power, however, in some cases it may be necessary.
Q: Is there a charge for the new meter?
A: There is no additional charge to customers for the installation of the new meters.
Q: How will I know if my meter has been exchanged?
A: Installers will knock on your door, if no one is home, a door hanger will be left indicating the meter exchange is complete.
Q: What specific information will the new meter provide?
A: It will record kWh readings, the number of times a loss of power has occurred, whether or not the meter has been tampered with, and the peak demand.
Q: If the power goes out, do I need to notify Shelby Energy?
A: Yes, you will need to contact us by phone to report a power outage at 1-800-292-6585.
Q: Will this affect my bank draft or Fixed/Levelized Budget Billing or other payment arrangements?
A: The AMI system will not affect your bank draft or Fixed/Levelized Budget Billing or other payment options and services.
Q: Will the new system interfere with other electronic devices?
A: No, AMI meters do not interfere with other electronic devices such as computers, invisible fences, or wireless internet.
Q: Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
A: If you have additional questions about Advanced Metering Infrastructure, please contact Candi Waford at 1-800-292-6585.
The Benefits of AMI
There are several customer service, cost and energy efficiency benefits of the AMI system including but not limited to:
Enables us to monitor the demand level at your home, farm or business to ensure that the transformer supplying your home is properly sized to accommodate all of your energy needs.
Reduces the potential for human error in reading and recording meter readings and assists in identifying power theft.
Records power blinks or momentary interruptions at your account so we can work to reduce future interruptions.
Improves meter reading accuracy and consistent billing periods. AMI , for example, eliminates a 20-day billing period one month and a 35-day billing period the following month.
AMI technology will integrate real-time outage information with the cooperative’s digital mapping system that will lead to improved outage reporting and power quality monitoring.
The ability to obtain a meter reading within seconds will improve and streamline the process of transferring responsibility for an account when a member moves in or out of a location.
email: shelbyenergy@shelbyenergy.com
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