Automatic Meter Reading is Here (January 24, 2007)
Lower Valley Energy has begun implementation of an automated meter reading system in the Hoback and Swan Valley areas. The new system, called TWACS (Two Way Automatic Communication System), will provide metering and load-controlling capabilities using existing power lines to send signals out to the electric meter. If this initial rollout is successful, we will install the new meters across the whole system within the next 5 years. Lower Valley Energy’s existing network and fiber-optics system will gather members’ usage, detect voltage levels for outage management, gather gas and/or water meter usage, operate load-control devices, and be able to disconnect power to meters – saving Lower Valley Energy time and expenses.
There are a multitude of benefits to the precise and instantaneous energy usage information the TWACS system will provide. We will be able to detect outages at unoccupied homes of seasonal members. When outages occur our outage management system will be able to talk to meters to determine the areas effected so we can more effectively dispatch crews to restore power. We will be able to accurately monitor hourly usage on transformers and reduce line loss by more effectively sizing for consumers usage. Members who currently estimate their readings for us will be a thing of the past.
In addition to the timely meter information, the TWACS system offers a substantial environmental benefit. The automated system will reduce our overall fuel consumption on vehicles along with drive time to read each meter. In addition, the TWACS system could be enabled with a remote disconnect/reconnect function, further saving travel and labor expense. The new meters will also be a deterrent to energy theft by identifying any reverse rotation consumption.
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