Expert Insights On Advanced Metering Infrastructure Deployment

Successful AMI deployment isn’t just a matter of plugging in new technology. It requires a holistic shift that touches every part of a utility — from IT and engineering to finance and customer service. Utilities must grapple with complex integration tasks, navigate funding and procurement hurdles, and foster a cultural willingness to embrace change. Without a clear plan and internal alignment, the promise of AMI can quickly become a source of frustration rather than progress.

In a recent webinar hosted by Water Online, Dave Rubin, senior director of product management at ACLARA (a Hubbell brand), shared lessons learned from years of helping utilities deploy AMI systems. Rubin offered expert guidance on how utilities can anticipate and overcome common pitfalls in deployment, as well as how to proactively design AMI projects that align with broader business goals.

During the webinar’s Q&A session, Rubin also tackled key questions facing utilities today: How do you build business practice changes into the project plan? Should you pursue a full or phased rollout? How can you secure stakeholder buy-in — especially from departments like finance or operations? And what technologies or standards can help ensure long-term success?