Eversource Upgrades Valley with Smart Meter Technology for Enhanced Efficiency

Eversource is in the midst of a significant technological upgrade across the Valley, replacing traditional electric meters with advanced "smart meters." This initiative aims to provide daily tracking of electricity usage, moving away from the previous monthly readings. The rollout is part of a broader statewide effort to modernize the utility’s infrastructure and offer customers greater insight into their energy consumption.

Key Takeaways

• Eversource is replacing over 1.5 million meters statewide over the next two years.
• Smart meters offer daily, hourly, and even 15-minute usage tracking for customers.
• The upgrade is expected to increase efficiency and reduce operational costs for Eversource.
• Customers have the option to opt-out of smart meter installation for a monthly fee.

A More Efficient Grid

Luis Pizano, Director of Smart Meter Operations at Eversource, explained that the new smart meters will fundamentally change how customers interact with their electricity usage. Unlike older analog meters that require utility vehicles to drive by each home monthly to collect readings, smart meters transmit data continuously via a radio system. This eliminates the need for manual meter reading, leading to significant cost savings in fuel, vehicle maintenance, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits for Customers

The transition to smart meters is designed to empower customers with more detailed information about their energy consumption. Pizano likened the upgrade to moving from an analog phone to a smartphone, emphasizing the increased accessibility and utility of the new technology. Customers will be able to monitor their electricity usage in near real-time through their Eversource accounts, potentially leading to better energy management and cost savings. The installation costs are being absorbed into customer bills over an extended period.

Addressing Concerns and Future Plans

While the smart meters utilize radio frequency (RF) for data transmission, Eversource assures that the emitted levels are safe and well within national guidelines. However, concerns about radiation have been raised, prompting legislative discussions. Bills have been introduced in the state legislature that would allow customers to retain analog meters without additional charges or require explicit written consent before installing smart meters. Eversource began its installations in western Massachusetts, with plans to expand to the eastern part of the state, aiming for a complete statewide rollout by the end of 2027. This modernization effort is part of a larger state-approved plan to upgrade the electricity grid with advanced metering infrastructure (AMI).

Sources

• Smart meter shift: Eversource rolling out new technology across Valley, Athol Daily News.