Automated Meter Read (AMR) Project
Umatilla Electric Cooperative is implementing an Automated Meter Read (AMR) system using the Two-Way Automatic Communication System (TWACS), which allow the meters to be read from UEC's office. This system will require Umatilla Electric Cooperative to exchange the existing electric meter with the new AMR meter.QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
How does AMR work?
The new meters are equipped with special modules, which allow the meters to be read from UEC's office. A command to read the TWACS meters is sent from a computer; the signal travels to the appropriate substation via radio where a unit is installed that allows the readings to be collected remotely. From the substation, the signal then goes to meters through the power lines. The readings are transmitted to the computer in reverse order.
Why are we changing to the AMR system?The AMR system provides Umatilla Electric and members with numerous customer service and cost saving benefits.
- The installation of an AMR system saves the Cooperative expenses such as meter reading costs which include employee salaries and transportation costs.
- AMR allows improved billing accuracy, enhanced customer service on billing and service issues and a substantial savings from misread or inaccurate readings.
- The system provides for fully automated, daily meter reading on all meters.
- The AMR system will give Umatilla Electric the ability to provide members with more detailed information such as power consumption patterns, outage and blink count history and voltage information, reducing high bill complaints.
What is the meter installation schedule?
Umatilla Electric members can expect to see the transition to the AMR system along with its benefits during a five (5) month deployment.
Where in Umatila Electric's service territory will the meter installation process begin?
Beginning in January of 2009 Umatilla Electric will begin changing out meters in the Boardman area and work east, completing the entire service territory by summer 2009.
Who will be changing out the meters?
At this time the meter exchanges will be performed by fully trained contract personnel. Contractor personnel will be in trucks bearing a magnetic sign, which identifies them as a UEC contractor. They will also be provided with door-hangers to inform each member of their purpose and presence at their home. Cooperative personnel will be equipped with Umatilla Electric marked trucks, uniforms and identification. We will also be provided with Umatilla Electric door-hangers to inform each member of their purpose and presence.
Do contractors need access inside my home?
NO. If someone attempts to access the inside of your house please notify Umatilla Electric and the local authorities.
Do members have a choice to get a (AMR) meter?
No. AMR meters will be installed on all of Umatilla Electric accounts. The Cooperative is embarking on a system-wide AMR program that will change 100 percent of existing residential and commercial meters to AMR, in order to acquire more accurate information. At this time, if a members has a question about their energy usage, the Cooperative must send operation personnel to the member's property to re-read the meter. Normally this is accomplished within 24 hours of the request. With AMR, Member Service Representatives can query the meter, and obtain the reading in a few seconds! AMR will give the Cooperative daily meter reading, instead of monthly reading performed by members. AMR will allow Umatilla Electric to read the meter in most weather conditions. AMR will allow us to give members much better customer service, incorporating the latest technology, to give Umatilla Electric significant benefits in regards to customer service, reliability and cost savings.
How much is this going to cost the member?
There will be no additional cost to the member to install the AMR system. There is no rate increase anticipated in association with this project. If the equipment during the change-out is considered to be dangerous or faulty, the Cooperative will inform the member and either replace parts or require a call to an electrician at the member's expense. In accordance with the Umatilla Electric Cooperative member agreement, members must keep their equipment in safe, working order.
What additional installation parts will I need?
No additional parts are anticipated or required. However, if something is identified as faulty or hazardous with member's equipment, Umatilla Electric employees will recommend replacements.
What's the difference between the AMR meter and an old meter?
The new meters are digital electronic devices while the old meters were an electro-mechanical device. The new meters will continue to display the meter reading, but it will be in a digital LCD format. The biggest difference is that the new meters will have an electronic circuit board module installed. The module received and stores the kilowatt-hour (kwh) and demand consumption recorded by the electronics in the meter, and is able to transmit this and other data over the power lines to equipment located in its substation. From the substation, the data is communicated at 900 MHZ back to the Cooperative computer, which will be located in the Hermiston main office.
Will I keep the same rate after the conversion?
Yes. Members will continue to stay on the same rate class as they have been classified in the past.
What information does the TWACS meter record?
The TWACS meter records an electronic kwh reading, the over-all peak demand of the electric account, if the meter has rotated backwards and the number of times the meter has experienced a loss of power for any reason. In fact, the meter will record the date and time of when the lights blink and the length of the power outage.
How will Umatilla Electric Cooperative read the meters?
The Cooperative's computer will communicate with the substation installed equipment via 900 MHZ radio and signal this equipment to request a meter reading. A reading request signal is sent over the power lines, and the TWACS meter responds back with the meter reading. The entire process takes a few seconds for a single meter reading.
Will someone other than Umatilla Electric be able to read the TWACS meter?
No. The TWACS computer software is a proprietary system. The substation communications equipment must be set-up by meter model and serial number and each meter must be added to the computer by its serial number and substation location. Someone using a home computer will not be able to read this electric meter. In fact, the new meter reading system does not increase the risk of hacking. Additionally, other electric companies with TWACS systems will not be able to read the Cooperative's meters. Members themselves may physically read the meters and as other options become available subscribers may view their consumption via our website.
How secure will the TWACS meters be?
The TWACS meter display is visible for the member to be able to check their consumption, all other information and data stored in the meter is secure and the meter is sealed.
Can the Cooperative disconnect electric service using the TWACS meters?
Yes, the meters do have remote disconnect capabilities.
Will the TWACS module notify Umatilla Electric when the power goes out?
No. The meters operate on a poll type basis. The meter does not call the Cooperative, Umatilla Electric calls the meter. Members will need to call Umatilla Electric Cooperative at 541-567-6414 or 1-800-452-2273 to report a power outage or emergency situation. The meters will be able to record outages which will allow the Cooperative to verify whether the outage is either on the member's side of the meter or Umatilla Electric's.
Will a power outage occur during the conversion?
Yes, members will experience a short disruption in their service during conversion; members will be notified prior to the conversion of this disruption. An attempt will be made to provide advance warning to members, by knocking on the door, before conducting the change-out. In extreme situations problems with equipment owned by the member may result in a longer disruption of service for minor repairs.
Can I still read the meter(s) on my property?
Yes, you still will be able to read the meter.
Will Umatilla Electric notify me prior to installation?
Yes, the Cooperative will be sending members advance notice. You will be contacted by mail a week in advance of your meter replacement. Members can also expect to receive follow-up informational materials, such as door hangers to help explain the AMR system and provide a final reading.
What if my bill reports more kwh usage than normal or if I think my meter is not working correct?
You have the option to contact a member service representative at 541-567-6414 or 1-800-452-2273 to discuss your billing concerns. However, electronic meters are more accurate than analog or mechanical meters. The TWACS meters installed by Umatilla Electric have been tested and calibrated to be within 99.8% accurate. Additionally, unlike mechanical meters the electronic meter has no moving parts that could effect the accuracy of the meter.
