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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New president at Manitoba Hydro to navigate turmoil at Crown corporation
WINNIPEG - The Manitoba government has appointed a new president and chief executive officer at its Crown-owned energy utility.
Jay Grewal becomes the first woman to head Manitoba Hydro, and takes over the top spot as the utility faces mounting financial challenges and turmoil.
Grewal has previously held senior roles at Capstone Mining Corp and B.C. Hydro, and is currently president of the Northwest Territories Power Corporation.
She will replace outgoing president Kelvin Shepherd, who recently announced he is retiring, on Feb. 4.
The utility was hit by the sudden resignations of nine of its 10 board members in March, who said they had…
