Avangrid: Smart meter tools give customers new ways to lower their energy costs

Avangrid press release

More than 1.75 million smart meters across upstate New York are giving customers clearer insight into their energy use and more control over costs.

New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are encouraging customers to take advantage of energy management tools available with their smart meter. The companies have installed more than 1.75 million smart meters across upstate New York, giving customers greater insight into their energy use and helping them make informed decisions.

“From dependable service to forward-thinking innovation, we’re committed to strengthening the communities we serve,” said Patricia Nilsen, CEO of NYSEG and RG&E. “Smart meters play a key role in that commitment. They give customers greater insight into their energy habits and the ability to make informed choices. Smart meters can help customers identify trends that can have a meaningful impact on their bills.”

Customers are encouraged to take advantage of free online resources available to them with a smart meter. Energy Manager allows customers to see how much energy they use down to the hour, compare bills, model their home’s energy use, and other features. Customers with a smart meter can also receive text or email alerts about their usage. These notifications include a weekly summary of energy use, notification of significant changes in daily use, and an alert if they exceed a customized energy threshold.

Smart meters also communicate accurate, real-time energy use and meter status to NYSEG and RG&E, meaning monthly bills are based on actual consumption instead of estimates. Customers with a smart meter no longer need to provide a meter reading or access to inside meters. If a customer experiences a power outage, it is automatically reported, enabling faster diagnosis and quicker response.

Here's what customers are saying about NYSEG and RG&E’s smart meters:

•“I especially like the smart meters that were installed, plus now I can review usage in real time, and over each day and month and compare to last year. I have observed that NYSEG has upgraded the infrastructure extensively. I really do watch consumption and where to economize.” – NYSEG customer in Newark.

•“I really like the new smart meter. I can check the usage to know how much my bill will be. Before the estimates could be way off so the smart meter is a good upgrade.” – NYSEG customer in Oriskany Falls.

• “Great service and a nice website that not only lets me pay my bill easily but also provides useful information about our energy usage and trends!” – RG&E customer in Rochester.

•“I like the job that RG&E is doing now. Now paying my bill is easier and the experience is very organized and streamlined with the smart meter.” – RG&E customer in Rochester.

More than 120 million smart meters have been installed and operate safely across the U.S. Smart meters undergo rigorous accuracy, functional, and safety testing and meet all industry standards.

The companies have completed the initial rollout of smart meters and will continue to install additional meters as requested. Customers who previously chose not to receive a smart meter may request installation at any time by contacting customer service:

√ NYSEG: Call 866‑531‑6313

√ RG&E: Call 866‑734‑3821

Once a customer opts in, the utility will schedule a convenient appointment if access to the meter is required. For more information on smart meters, visit www.nyseg.com/smartmeters or www.rge.com/smartmeters.