Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did Cheyenne Light, Fuel & Power install new smart meters?
Cheyenne Light’s mission is to provide our customers safe, reliable energy at a reasonable cost. Advanced Metering Infrastructure technology, using smart meters, is a key component of a larger effort by Black Hills Corporation’s electric utilities to upgrade the electric grid using the latest technologies.
In October 2009, BHC announced that the Department of Energy had selected each of its electric utility subsidiaries — Black Hills Energy, Black Hills Power, and Cheyenne Light — for smart grid investment grant funding totaling $20.7 million.
Specifically, Cheyenne Light received preliminary approval for $5 million in matching funds toward the installation of 38,000 smart meters and communications infrastructure that will provide the foundation for customers to better monitor their energy consumption in and around Cheyenne, Wyo.
The DOE funds are made available under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Cheyenne Light’s smart grid projects will contribute to the national goal of a smart grid and serve the public interest of customers in and around Cheyenne. - What is a smart meter?
A smart meter is equipped with wireless communications technology. This allows Cheyenne Light to communicate with smart meters remotely so that certain service requests can be completed faster, such as meter reading, service connections (in certain situations) and outage notifications. Smart meters are just the first step in establishing the foundation of the smart grid of the future.
- Why were the traditional meters replaced with smart meters?
In a time of rising energy prices, smart meters encourage customers to think more about how and when electricity is used, which in turn, will help meet current and future energy needs.
- Were both the existing electric and gas meters replaced with smart meters?
Cheyenne Light only replaced electric meters. The majority of the gas meters are read once a month by using a mobile unit that drives by to retrieve meter data remotely.
- What are the benefits of a smart meter?
Smart meter benefits include:
Improved Diagnostics — Remote monitoring capabilities enable two-way communication between Cheyenne Light and your meter, providing better information about your electricity use and meter status.
Enhanced customer service — Through remote capabilities, Cheyenne Light can provide faster meter reading and service connections ensuring more accurate billing.
Reduced operating costs — Existing meters are read once a month, either manually by a meter reader or by using a mobile unit that drives by to retrieve meter data remotely. Smart meters are read daily using a two-way communications network, which results in reduced labor costs associated with obtaining the read.
Power outage detection — Smart meters notify us when your power goes off and when it has been restored. Also assists in sizing the outages more accurately. This lets Cheyenne Light dispatch crews that have the skills needed, in appropriate numbers.
Other benefits – the two way communications will also assist in the following areas:
High bill investigations
Voltage investigations
Meter re-reads and read transfers
False outage calls
Tamper/theft detection
Reduced meter reader accidents
Meter inspection at time of meter exchange
GPS of new smart meters
Increased customer privacy - Will customer account and usage information remain secure and confidential?
Yes. Cheyenne Light is required to comply with all federal laws regarding privacy, protection and disclosure of personal information. The meters and the associated communications system are encrypted and equipped with security features to prevent unauthorized access.
- Can a customer read his or her own smart meter?
Yes. Smart meters have an easy-to-read digital display instead of a series of dials.
- Do meter readers still need to come around to read the meter?
All electric smart meters are read remotely. However, because a percentage of our gas meters are not automated, a meter reader will continue to visit your home monthly to read the meter. Additionally, Cheyenne Light employees will need to continue accessing the meter for periodic safety and quality assurance inspections and maintenance.
- Does Cheyenne Light provide customers with home energy monitors?
As part of our DSM Application, Cheyenne Light rolled out a “Home Energy Monitor” pilot program. The pilot program consists of installing home energy monitors by our Energy Services Team, educating our customers on how to use the monitor and monitoring the effectiveness of the monitor for a 12 month period of time. For more information visit www.CheyenneLightHowTo.com.
- Are the smart meters safe?
Yes. The new meters operate on a radio frequency similar to a cordless phone. Similar technology has been used by Cheyenne Light meters since 1994. The difference is that the old technology required Cheyenne Light employees to drive near the meter location, while the new technology transmits the readings remotely.
For more information, please view our AMI Fact Sheet, and FAQ or contact Cheyenne Light at 866-264-8003.