Question 1

Is the data from my smart meter encrypted?

Accepted Answer

The manufacturer has incorporated advanced security features and encryption technology into the meter. While the meter display is visible so customers can check their consumption, the meters are sealed and the information and data stored within them can only be accessed with special software. Data transmitted from the meter through the system is encrypted through the entire process.
 
Our system is and will continue to be in compliance with standards on cybersecurity and privacy. Our systems also comply with federal and state regulations. Network devices and smart meters will remain in alignment with the established standards and will use internet protocol to drive strong cyber security. In the case of network devices, this refers to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards; and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards apply to meters.

Question 2

Will my billing schedule change?

Accepted Answer

SELCO plans to maintain existing billing schedules at this time. However, it is possible that we may adjust our monthly billing and meter reading schedule in the future. Customers will be notified of any changes to our monthly billing schedule in advance.

Question 3

How accurate are the new smart meters?

Accepted Answer

They are extremely accurate. Meters are subject to strict design standards when they are manufactured. Meters are tested by the manufacturer and those results are sent to us. We have a procedure to select and test meters on a random basis both before and after putting them into service to confirm they operate satisfactorily.
The standards for smart meters must meet requirements set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Question 4

How will I know that you have taken my reading and not someone else's?

Accepted Answer

Each smart meter has a unique identification number, which is transmitted along with the meter reading. The unique number is tied to your account number in our system to ensure a match.

Question 5

Do the new smart meters use more power than the existing meters?

Accepted Answer

Your energy use and charges are not affected by the type of meter you have.

Question 6

Will I still need to contact SELCO if I have a power outage?

Accepted Answer

The smart meters will help SELCO identify and respond to outages more efficiently. However, it is still important for you to report your outage so that your information can be reported in our outage management system. By calling in, you can help us identify safety hazards such as downed wires or provide specific information that will help us restore power more efficiently.

Question 7

Could the new meters impact my health?

Accepted Answer

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) establishes requirements for acceptable RF exposure limits. Smart meters comply with and exceed these requirements, as well as global international requirements. Smart meters also present significantly lower RF exposure than many other products (including our current AMR meters) used daily by consumers without concern.

Question 8

How do radio frequency concerns relate to smart meters?

Accepted Answer

Radio frequency levels for smart meters are set by the Federal Communications Commission and the meters used by SELCO comply with the FCC standards. Radio frequency levels measured from smart meters are well below the approved limits. AMI meters  transmit less radio frequency than the current AMR meters. Learn more about radio frequency from Itron. https://na.itron.com/radio-frequency-resource-center(https://na.itron.com/radio-frequency-resource-center)

Question 9

Will the meter signal interfere with other electronic equipment?

Accepted Answer

No. The radio transmission operates in compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices.