Oregon utility to initiate new metering technology

Pacific Power will deliver smart meters to residential and business customers in Eastern Oregon next month, replacing aging electric meters throughout the spring and summer.

“We’re installing smart meters here in Eastern Oregon as part of an upgrade for the homes and businesses we serve,” Lori Wyman, Pacific Power’s regional business manager for Eastern Oregon, said. “Nearly two-thirds of our customers in Oregon are already enjoying the benefits of a smart meter, and we look forward to bringing this technology to our community.”

Installation of the 22,000 new meters begins the week of May 13 and will conclude in August. The devices would instantly track outages; let customers view their power usage hour-by-hour, so they can adjust their activity to reduce both their carbon footprint and bill; and provide businesses with detailed usage reporting, which will help them cut costs and make investments in items that help their businesses grow. The mass installation will also update the grid to work more efficiently and better integrate renewable power sources.

“This upgrade brings the future of reliable and efficient power to our region and to our state,” Wyman said. “We are connecting communities throughout Oregon, improving the way we power our customers’ lives both at home and at work.”

Customers will be notified before installation through the mail and receive detailed information about the new smart meters while Pacific Power technicians will remove the old meter, install the new meter, restore service and verify the new meter is working properly.