Smart Meters

Southwestern Electric Cooperative Smart Meter FAQs

Why is Southwestern Electric installing new smart meters?
Southwestern Electric Cooperative is installing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters to improve reliability, efficiency, and service for our members.

These smart meters help you better understand how much electricity you use so you can make informed decisions about your energy consumption. They also provide the cooperative with important system information that helps improve power quality, optimize our electric system, and locate outages more quickly.

This project will be completed over a three-year period beginning in 2026. Members will be notified in advance prior to their meter being replaced.

What is the difference between the old meters and the new smart meters?

The main difference between the current AMR (Automated Meter Reading) system and new smart meters is how they communicate. Our existing meters use one-way communication, meaning they only send basic usage data back to the cooperative.

Smart meters, on the other hand, use two-way communication. This allows for near real-time tracking of energy usage and enables the cooperative to both receive information and send signals when needed. Smart meters record your energy use throughout the day and securely transmit that data to Southwestern Electric.

This improved technology helps Southwestern Electric monitor the system more efficiently, identify issues faster, and respond more quickly to outages or service problems.

Smart meters communicate over a secure wireless network using low-frequency radio signals, similar to those used by common everyday technologies like smartphones, radios, and televisions.

How does the new meter benefit me?

More reliable service
Smart meters help us identify outages faster so crews can respond more quickly.

Better system performance
The new meters help us monitor voltage levels and other system conditions to maintain a reliable electric grid.

Improved member service
You can access more timely information about your energy use, and our team can help review your usage if you have questions about your bill.

More control over your energy use
Detailed energy information can help you make smarter choices about how and when you use electricity.

How does my new meter work?

Your new smart meter securely sends energy usage information to Southwestern Electric through a licensed and encrypted communication system. This allows us to read your meter remotely from our office.

The meter reports important system information such as energy use, voltage levels, and outage or power blink notifications.

Does the smart meter notify the cooperative when my power goes out?

Yes. In many cases the smart meter automatically alerts us when an outage occurs.

However, we still recommend reporting outages by phone or through SmartHub to ensure your outage is properly documented.

Can the smart meter interfere with equipment in my home?

No. The meter system meets standards set by the Federal Communications Commission and is designed to not interfere with electronics or equipment inside your home or business.

How much radio frequency (RF) power do the smart meters emit?

Extremely little.

Smart meters send small amounts of radio frequency energy when transmitting data. These levels are far below the safety limits established by the Federal Communications Commission.

Everyday devices such as cell phones, Wi Fi routers, and baby monitors typically produce higher radio frequency levels than smart meters.

Is my data secure?

Yes. Your meter data is transmitted through a licensed, encrypted, and secure system.

Smart meters do not collect or store personal information. Southwestern Electric keeps all member information confidential and follows applicable laws that protect personal data used for billing and member service.

Who can I contact with questions?

 

Call us at (800) 637-8667. We're here to help.