NYSEG plans to install 'smart' meters in area homes, firms
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - NYSEG is planning to install "smart" meters at its customers' homes and businesses beginning next year that could be read remotely, saving the company an estimated $88 million over the next 20 years.
NYSEG said the program to upgrade its 1.1 million meters would use two-way communications, possibly by radio or a broadband connection over power lines, to read the meters.
National Grid upgraded most of its meters in the Buffalo Niagara region several years ago.
The upgraded meters also could be a tool to help consumers conserve energy if customers used time-based rates that charge higher prices when the demand for electricity is highest and lower prices when demand is low, such as during the early morning hours.
NYSEG, in a filing with the state Public Service Commission, has proposed paying for the $243 million meter upgrade program through a surcharge on customer bills.
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Hydro One delivery rates go up
THUNDER BAY - Hydro One seasonal customers will face bigger increases in their bills than the utility's residential customers as a result of an Ontario Energy Board approval of a rate hike.
Hydro One received permission to increase its delivery charge, retroactive to last year.
It says it needs the money to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure, much of which was installed in the 1950s.
The utility is notifying customers that new statements reflect higher delivery rates which were not charged in 2018 and the first half of this year, due to delay in receiving the OEB's permission.
The amount that customers' bills will increase by depends…
