U.S. State Regulators Vetting Smart Meters

Monday, 04 January 2010 12:29

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Connecticut Light & Power Co. has completed a large test of homes using smart meters. But on the heels of California power customers complaining over smart meter-based electric bills, state regulators are investigating if smart meters are a benefit to consumers or just a boon to utilities. Connecticut will hold hearings next year.

The United Illuminating Company, a New Haven, Connecticut-based electric distribution company that serves nearly 325,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers, reports it has equipment rates and technology to address some of the concerns raised is California. UI estimates it will need $8 million for equipment and updates to its billing and computer systems.

Currently, UI customers can log on to its Web site to check their consumption. They also can enter information on appliances to show how much electricity that equipment uses. New meters also allow the company to alert customers when they hit a certain dollar threshold. Thomas admits there have been some complaints regarding higher than expected bills, but he says in the near future consumers will be able to schedule an alert for when their bill hits $100 so they can take extra power saving measures.

There is an advantage for utilities in consumers controlling bills: Taylor believes it will reduce the number of uncollectible accounts. He also noted that hourly rates probably won’t make sense for everyone, so there should be fixed rates offered as well.

In Germany, smart energy has gotten a boost as Deutsche Telekom AG and Switzerland’s ABB Ltd. have signed a letter of intent to partner in developing and marketing joint solutions for intelligent power grids.

“A declaration of intent has already been signed, a contract is set to be sealed in the first quarter of 2010,” a Telekom spokesman said in a statement. “It is our goal to offer ready solutions for municipal utilities and mid-sized energy suppliers.”