Smart meters are typically installed outside the home, either in place of or as part of existing meters. Internet and cell phone applications have become the preferred options because of their flexibility and ease of deployment. Smart meters talk to their central systems using RF transmissions, based on a cell phone, pager, satellite, radio, power line (PLC), Wi-Fi or Internet (TCP/IP) communication method. They differ from traditional utility meters in that they are electronic and can talk to a central computer system. Smart meters record the amount of the product (electricity, water, etc.) consumed over time. In recent years, they have been installed in some areas of the United States as well.Ĭoncerns have been raised about the safety of smart meters, mainly because they give off the same kinds of radiofrequency (RF) waves as cell phones and Wi-Fi devices. Smart meters have been used for a number of years in some developed countries, especially in parts of Europe. More recently, meters that automatically send usage information back to the product supplier have been used. In the past, the data from the meters had to be read by a person. It is the commission’s responsibility to ensure regulated companies provide safe and reliable service to customers at reasonable rates, while allowing them the opportunity to earn a fair profit.Įditor’s note: The rulemaking and related documents can be found at use (and be billed for) utilities such as electricity, natural gas, or water, the amount you use must be measured. The UTC is the state agency that regulates private, investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities in Washington. The commission previously published a policy statement, requiring companies using smart meters to create a transition plan and allow customers concerned about their privacy to opt-out of the smart meter adoption. The rules also maintain and enhance special protections for low-income customers and customers with medical conditions. Service cannot be disconnected on Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays.Ĭompanies 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 when colder weather makes disconnection detrimental to health and safety. Delivery options include electronic communication, telephone, regular mail, and attaching notices to the customer’s door. Companies must provide multiple notices to customers before involuntary disconnection. To protect vulnerable customers, the updated rules provide specific consumer protection guidelines for how and when companies may use smart meters to disconnect customers involuntarily for nonpayment once the COVID-19-related pause on disconnections ends. Companies must notify customers and the commission of any security breaches, including the nature and extent of the breach, and the steps they take to recover data and prevent the further loss of personally identifiable information.Companies should respond to customer information requests about their personal data within 10 business days.Companies must receive written consent, paper or digital, from customers before releasing identifying information to third parties, and only when needed for an authorized business need.
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