Success Roadmap For Advanced Metering Infrastructure Installations

For a water utility of any size to function properly, effective meter reading is a vital aspect of day-to-day operations. Meter reading supports both ends of the transaction, ensuring that water is being properly delivered, accounted for and billed each month. With meters playing such a key role in providing reliable water service, utilities must be able to quickly and effectively read each meter on a consistent basis.

To that end, any innovation or improvement to the metering system could represent significant benefits for a water utility, helping them to make better use of their resources and save money. One of the biggest game-changing technologies to be introduced to water service is an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution, which allows remote collection of meter data for billing and maintenance purposes. Installing an AMI system requires a significant initial investment; however, technology can pay for itself over time with customer service and water measurement improvements and reduced operations costs. Advanced meter infrastructure is more accurate and efficient than automatic meter reading (AMR), drive-by, touch pad or one-way reading systems, allowing utilities to immediately become more profitable and reliable.

In addition to the initial financial outlay required to implement an AMI system, utilities must undertake thorough, careful project planning to properly deploy the new infrastructure and software technology. Detailed planning can help prevent service disruptions, making the difference between satisfied and dissatisfied customers.