Remote technology benefits utilities and customers

Automatic meter reading is the remote collection of consumption data from customers' utility meters using telephony, radio frequency, Power Line and satellite communications technologies.

Developed in the late 1970s, AMR has increased operational efficiency, improved customer service and reduced data-collection costs for water, gas and electric utility-service companies. The technology offers just-in-time meter replacement, tamper detection, remote access and automatic scheduling of meter reading.

Customers benefit from AMR with increased meter-reading accuracy, fewer estimated bills, rapid response to read requests, automatic leak detection and billing options. The technology also improves resource-management abilities by detecting system losses on a demand-zone basis and providing detailed usage information about individual sites. Utilities can use the information to offer variable rates and encourage price-responsive behavior among customers.