AMI Reads Your Meter and Much More

The right balance of technology and human intervention creates efficient use of resources. By the end of 2008 CAEC will have completed the installation of its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). This system is more than new meters that collect readings, but a two-way communication system that uses our existing power lines to transmit signals to and from each meter and the substation. Telephone or two way radios are then used to transmit the information to the office. In addition to eliminating 21,000 miles of driving each month to collect the meter readings for billing purposes the system also provides instantaneous readings and provides hourly readings to help members see when power is being used, it allows us to check if the meter has power from the distribution system, records blinks and power levels. The load control system also receives the signal to work through the AMI system.