Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

What is AMI?

AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure. It's a technology that replaces traditional analog meters with digital meters that can communicate with utility companies. These smart meters provide real-time data on energy and water usage, allowing for more accurate billing and improved utility management.

How AMI Works

The City installs advanced electric and water meters at the customer's residence.
The advanced meters deliver usage information securely over a radio network to the City's Operations and Customer Service centers. Network devices are commonly located on streetlights and utility poles.
The City receives remote meter readings needed for billing. The utilities also receive important alerts, which help crews respond faster to service disruptions.
Customers are able to view and monitor daily energy and water usage and bake informed decisions. Customers can sign up for important notifications and alerts from the utilities.

Image for AMI Leak Detection description

Benefits of AMI

AMI benefits customers and utility operations in several ways:

	Convenience: By the end of 2025, City of Richland's customer portal will be online. This tool gives you access to daily water usage information, real-time water leak and energy notifications, and news and information feeds about the City's projects, to name a few features. More information will be posted on the City of Richland's My Utilities page closer to the portals availability.
	Accurate Billing: Customer Service Representatives will be able to answer customer questions more effectively with the increased insight AMI provides. Real-time data reduces estimated reads and billing errors.
	Improved Energy & Water Efficiency: Replacing aging infrastructure with up-to-date technology is part of the City's responsibility and service to you. Customers can monitor electric and water usage and make informed decisions about their electrical and water consumption such as how conserving energy and water affects their bills.
	Leak Detection: AMI systems can detect leaks or unusual usage patterns, helping identify customers and address issues promptly, reducing waste and saving money.
	Enhanced Resolution & Communication: City staff can address your concerns quicker because information, including near real-time readings, leak notifications, and other service alerts will be accessible remotely. AMI systems can provide customers with timely notifications about usage and other important information.
	Reduced Carbon Footprint: By enabling customers to use energy more efficiently and reduce waste, AMI can contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
	Privacy: City staff will make fewer visits to homes and businesses to collect readings. Also, on site investigations for reading verification will decrease confirming meter data can be accomplished remotely.

Radio Frequency (RF) Information

Advanced meters comply with the health and safety standards set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Energy emitted by the meters is much lower than common home devices, including microwaves, cell phones, baby monitors, and wi-fi routers. The American Cancer Society and World Health Organization have published studies indicating there is no evidence that RF from advanced metering poses a health risk.

Customer Privacy & Data Security

Your privacy is important to the City. Advanced meter data will be used primarily for billing and system operations and enhancements. Meter data indicates volume of usage only. No personal identifiable information is stored in the meters or communicated across the network.

Additional Resources

AMI FAQ

AMI Meter Installation Example

Opt-Out Application