PGE has begun upgrading to a new generation of smart meters. These new digital meters will allow PGE to read the meter remotely over a private, secure wireless network, much like a cell phone network. Once the system is fully installed and tested, meter readers will no longer have to visit your home or business every month to read the meter. However, PGE will still periodically access the meter for routine testing and maintenance. The upgrade is scheduled to be completed by September 2010.

Benefits
You’ll continue to enjoy the same reliable electrical service and your bill will look the same as before. But smart meters will help us to improve customer service, operate more efficiently and keep our rates as low as possible. There are several advantages:

• Saves money: We anticipate millions in savings per year following the installation of smart meters. Controlling costs helps keep electric rates as low as possible.
• Saves the environment: Fewer meter-reading vehicles will cut 1.2 million miles of driving, save 80,000 gallons of gasoline and reduce CO2 emissions by 1.5 million pounds every year.
• Helps you save energy: By 2010, customers with smart meters will be able to access detailed information about their power consumption. Together, we can help you plan energy-saving strategies.
• Speeds power restoration: Further down the road, the new meters will be able to tell PGE if you’re experiencing a power outage. That can help us dispatch repair crews more efficiently and speed the restoration of service.
• Enables smart grid technology: Smart metering is the foundation for future “smart grid” and “smart home” technology that will help us optimize our services and lower your energy costs.

More information
To learn more, see our smart meter brochure (PDF), a map (PDF) showing prospective dates for smart meter customer rollout, e-mail or call 800-542-8818.