UTILITIES/Utility automates meter-reading processes

Written by Misty Reagin

Clark Public Utilities (CPU) in Clark County, Wash., has automated its meter-reading processes by outfitting approximately 155,000 electric meters with automatic meter reading (AMR) modules. The technology is allowing CPU to increase efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Previously, CPU’s staff of meter readers walked from property to property to gather electricity consumption data. According to Mick Shutt, corporate communications manager for CPU, each staff member could gather approximately 350 meter readings per eight-hour day.

CPU had considered automating its meter-reading process for years, but the technology was not always reliable, and it was expensive, Shutt says. “When it comes to meter reading, [accuracy] is a must,” he says. “Then, in 1999, [the technology started to improve], and we felt this was an opportunity to save money and increase efficiency.”

In April 2001, CPU contracted with Spokane, Wash.-based Itron to supply a mobile AMR system. The company hired a subcontractor to install ERT (Encode, Receive, Transmit) modules beneath the glass of almost every electric meter in CPU’s system. The ERT modules transmit electricity consumption data as well as meter-tampering information, allowing CPU to take a reading remotely or stop to investigate a problem.

Now, CPU staff members can read the meters within a half-mile radius by driving down the street in a utility vehicle equipped with a computer and data collection software. The computer sends out a radio signal to collect the electricity consumption data from the ERT modules, and that data is stored on a floppy disk. Back at the utility office, CPU downloads the data from the floppy disk into its billing system.

Using the AMR system, which went live in August 2002, one CPU staff member can read approximately 12,000 meters in one eight-hour day. As a result, CPU has decreased its operational costs by reducing its number of vehicles and staff members. CPU also is saving money and increasing cash flow by shifting from a bi-monthly billing cycle to a monthly one.

CPU expects the $11 million AMR system to pay for itself within four years because of those savings. Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Koch Financial provided lease purchase financing for the AMR system.