Washington State regulators approve new rules for smart meters to protect customer information

Regulators in Washington State have approved new rules for smart meter infrastructure, designed to protect customer information.

The rules, approved by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, provide guidance to investor-owned utilities employing smart meter technology for residential customers. The rules focus on protecting customer information and ensuring continuity of service, officials said. Smart meters offer two-way communication between the meter and a utility, providing customer usage data.

Under the commission’s new rules, companies may only collect and keep personally identifiable information from customers that is necessary to provide services. Also, they must provide customers access to their private information through a secure, convenient, and user-friendly website. Further, companies must receive written consent from customers before releasing identifying information to third parties, and only when needed for an authorized business need. In addition, they should respond to customer information requests about their personal data within 10 business days. Finally, companies must notify customers and the commission of any security breaches, including the nature and extent of the breach. They must also take steps to recover data and prevent the further loss of personally identifiable information.

Additionally, companies must also educate customers about the winter low-income payment program and establish conditions under which the utility will not disconnect service during the winter months. Rules also enhance special protections for low-income customers and those with medical conditions.

The new rules are effective Aug. 29.