What is a smart meter? Is it the same as AMI?

According to the American Water Works Association, “…smart meters are part of an integrated system of meters and information systems that enable communication between meters and utilities.” We refer to the installation of this whole smart metering system as our “Smart Metering Program”. Smart Meters are also referred to as AMI meters. AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure.

Why is CCWA installing smart meters? 

The average age of all our water meters is 15 years, which means they are reaching the end of their useful life and need to be replaced.

Smart Meters will allow CCWA to read meters remotely and collect water use data that can help identify leaks or other potential water issues before they cause significant damage or problems. Both customers and CCWA will be able to see the same data. This will help us better assist customers and answer questions or troubleshoot issues regarding water use.

How does a smart metering system work? Can it tell you how I use my water? 

Smart meters use a cellular or wireless transmission system to send hourly water use data to the utility, which allows the meters to be read remotely. With the Badger “Eye on Water” customer portal connected to CCWA’s existing Cayenta billing system, customers will be able to pay their bills and see their hourly water usage whenever they want to view it online.

Smart meters cannot indicate how water is being used, only the amount of water being used.

Can I opt out of getting a smart meter? 

No. CCWA plans to install smart meters for all our customers, so everyone has access to their water use data.

Will my bill go up with the new meters? 

The new smart meters have the ability to record even small amounts of water (like a leaky faucet or toilet) going through the meter to your home/business. Because of this increased level of precision, you may see changes in the amount of water that is used on your bill even if you haven’t significantly changed your use patterns.

To learn more about how you can reduce your water use, go to https://www.ccwa.us/tips-on-leaks/.

Will my account information be secure? 

Yes. Your meter will have a specific geocode that notes the location of your meter. The water use information will be transmitted through an integrated network technology solution. The only information that will be transmitted is meter identification and usage/alert data. Meter data is reliably and securely transmitted and received. We communicate data over a private network—not the public internet—and manage it according to ISO 27001 and SOC 2 compliance standards. No customer information or personal identifiable data is transmitted.

What are some of the benefits of smart water meters? 

• • Meters will be read remotely
  • Water use data is available to help spot and diagnose issues or unusual water consumption
  • CCWA and customers will have access to near real time water use data that can help more quickly identify potential leaks or unusual water usage
  • More precise measurements will reflect actual water use
  • They can help customers and CCWA more quickly identify potential leaks before they damage property or lead to high bills
  • Will help streamline operations within CCWA

Others:

• • Will help CCWA provide even better customer service by seeing hourly water use to assist in billing or use questions
  • Improved safety and working conditions for many CCWA employees, especially meter readers. Traffic, animals, and weather conditions can pose safety issues for meter readers.
  • They will help us use more precise water system data to improve both our internal operations and external customer service.
  • They give us the ability to better monitor water consumption, which helps us plan and operate our system efficiently and proactively.
  • They will help us quickly find leaks at vacant/closed properties during times of extreme cold weather like we experienced during December 2022.
  • The water use data can provide information like when and how much water is used but it does NOT indicate HOW the water is used.

How will I know when I’m getting a smart meter? 

• • About 2 weeks before your meter is installed → customers should receive a postcard with information about your installation.
  • About a week before your meter is installed → customers should receive a call from Everbridge reminding them that their new meter is on its way.
  • The day of installation → we’ll leave a doorhanger on your door to provide more details about your installation.
  • We’ll also post a map on our website with installation timing details.
  • Elements such as weather, pace of installation, and unexpected location or installation issues mean we are not able to let you know the exact day and time when they will be at your home or business.

Do I need to be home for the meter change/installation? 

• • Residential customers do NOT need to be home for the meter change. All of CCWA’s residential meters are located outside and the installers will NOT need to enter your home.
  • Commercial customers will be contacted directly to coordinate the meter change/installation.