MVEC is beginning the process of changing out 34,000 electric meters to a new “smart” meter system.  This multi-year project will bring member service enhancements, operational efficiencies, and cost efficiencies.

What is AMI?

• AMI stands for Automated Meter Infrastructure. AMI consists of a “smart” meter and equipment at our distribution substations.
• AMI enables MVEC to read the electronic meter on the side of your house remotely over the power-lines.
• Instead of a meter reader visiting your home to read the meter once per month, we’ll be visiting your meter electronically three times per day.

What are the benefits of AMI?

• AMI provides MVEC with valuable information, including hourly consumption, voltage, blinks, outages, and demand information.
• AMI provides daily meter reads, which has the potential to show our members a true picture of their usage so they can conserve and better manage their electric bill.
• Improved member service, including:
• Minimizing the need to access your property to read your meters.
• Call resolution improvement – billing calls will be handled more quickly due to availability of more frequent meter readings.
• You won’t need to read your own meters if we can’t access it.

How will the AMI Project impact MVEC members?

• The project requires changing out 34,000 meters across MVEC’s service territory.
• When the meter is changed out on the side of your house, you will be without power for about 30 seconds.
• You will receive a post-card or letter prior to the meter being changed out.
• On the day the meter is exchanged, an MVEC employee will knock on your door to inform you the exchange will be taking place.

Frequently Asked Questions About the AMI Project

Q Do I need to be home for this appointment?

A – No.  The electric meter is on the outside of your house.

Q – How will I know the meter exchanger is really from MVEC?

A – Our employees will have name tags on and will be driving company vehicles.  If you have questions, feel free to call our office to verify.

Q – How long will the meter exchange take?

A – The actual exchange will take less than 5 minutes – generally, it will take about 30 seconds to exchange the meter.

Q – Is this something I have to do?

A – Yes, this is a mandatory meter exchange.

Q – Will I be billed for the work?

A – No.  You will not see any line item costs on your bill for the meter or the work done.

Q – How do you know that my reading is accurate?

A –The new “smart” meters are technological advanced and more accurate than current meters.  Prior to being installed, the meters go through rigorous tests to ensure they meet the most stringent industry accuracy requirements.

Q - Why does it say meter exchange on my bill?

A - Whenever a meter is exchanged it references the exchange on your bill.