Smart Energy - Smarter Communities

Planned AMI installations are underway across VPPSA communities. Schedules vary by utility. You’ll receive direct notice before any work at your property. For questions or to discuss opt-out options under Vermont law (30 V.S.A. § 2811), please contact your local utility.

Accurate energy insights. Faster outage response. Greater control over your electric use.

📍Meter Rollout

What is Advanced Metering Infrastructure?

Two-way data communication

Near real-time usage tracking

Enables better utility performance

Supports renewables and energy efficiency

Vermont’s Smart Grid: Catching Up to the Future

Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) isn’t new—but it’s finally coming to VPPSA communities. Across Vermont, more than 300,000 electric customers already benefit from AMI meters that offer near to real-time data, faster outage response, and more accurate billing. Until now, many public power customers in smaller towns haven’t had access to the same technology as their neighbors. That’s changing. With the help of statewide investments and collaborative planning, VPPSA member utilities are upgrading systems and bringing our customers into the modern energy era. The result? More insight. More reliability. Better service to our customers.

Why Upgrade to AMI Meters?

More Accurate Billing

Get precise measurements of your electricity usage for fair and transparent billing.

Smarter Energy Use

Gain insights into your consumption patterns to make informed decisions about your energy use.

Faster Outage Detection

Utilities can identify and respond to power outages more quickly, reducing downtime.

Better for the Environment

Support energy efficiency initiatives and integration of renewable energy sources.

Private & Secure

Your data is protected with encryption and strong cybersecurity protocols.

How the AMI meter rollout works…

Network Build Out

  • Your utility installs the communications equipment that allows meters to transmit secure data.

Meter Installation

  • A technician replaces your existing meter with an AMI meter. The swap usually takes 10–15 minutes and may briefly interrupt power.

Activation & Data Access

  • Your new meter connects to the network, your utility verifies readings, and eligible customers gain access to energy-use tools.

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS

Each utility will provide:

  • Advance notice of installation
  • Personalized updates on your utility's AMI deployment through mailers
  • Contact info for questions

Frequently Asked Questions​​​​


General Info

  1. What is AMI?
    AMI is a network of smart meters that enables two-way communication between utilities and customers.
  1. How does an AMI meter differ from a traditional meter?
    Traditional meters are read manually. AMI meters transmit data automatically.
  1. Will AMI increase my electricity bill?
    AMI reveals accurate usage data, which may differ from old meters, but the technology itself doesn't raise rates.
  1. What are the primary benefits of AMI for residential customers?
    More accurate billing, outage detection, energy insights, cost savings, and utility efficiency.
  1. How can AMI help me save money on my energy bill?
    By giving you detailed usage data so you can adjust your consumption habits.
  1. How does AMI benefit the environment?
    It supports energy efficiency, reduces need for excess generation, and enables renewable integration.
  1. How does AMI improve grid reliability?
    It helps utilities detect and address issues in real-time, enabling proactive maintenance.

Billing & Energy Use

  1. Will I see more detailed billing with AMI?
    Yes, including usage by hour or day if offered by your utility.
  1. Can I use AMI data to track individual appliance usage?
    Not directly—AMI measures overall use. Smart plugs or monitors can help with specifics.
  1. Can AMI help me understand peak and off-peak energy times?
    Yes, it tracks when you use energy most so you can shift usage if time-of-use rates are available.
  1. How often does an AMI meter send data?
    Varies by utility—typically every 15 minutes to 8 hours.
  1. Can I view my AMI data in real-time?
    Some utilities offer portals; others may have a delay between data collection and display.
  1. Will AMI require me to change my appliances?
    No. AMI meters work with all standard appliances.
  1. Will I see more accurate bills?
    Yes. AMI prevents under- or over-estimation and ensures meter accuracy.
  1. Does AMI support time-of-use rates?
    Yes. AMI enables time-based rates and customer flexibility if your utility offers them.

Privacy & Safety

  1. Will AMI compromise my privacy?
    No. It transmits encrypted usage data without personal identifiers.
  1. Is the radiation from AMI meters harmful?
    No. RF levels are minimal and within federal safety standards.
  1. How secure is the data transmitted by AMI meters?
    Encrypted and protected with cybersecurity protocols.
  1. Will AMI data be shared with third parties?
    Not without your permission. Utilities follow Vermont privacy laws and do not share customer data.
  1. Will my personal information be protected?
    Yes. Only usage data is transmitted—no PII is included.

Installation & Equipment

  1. How long will it take for AMI to be installed in my area?
    Swanton: mid-May 2025. Tranche 2: Summer–Fall 2025. Tranche 3: Late 2025–Early 2026.
  1. Will an AMI meter work if there is a power outage?
    Yes. It stores data during outages and resumes normal function afterward.
  1. What happens if there’s an issue with my AMI meter?
    The utility is automatically alerted and will resolve the issue quickly.
  1. How durable are AMI meters?
    They last 15+ years and withstand Vermont weather.
  1. Are there any hidden fees associated with AMI meters?
    No, unless your meter socket needs repair, which may be the customer’s responsibility.
  1. Will I need to replace my AMI meter in the future?
    Not for a long time—typical lifespan is over a decade.
  1. How do I know if my AMI meter is working correctly?
    Utilities are alerted to malfunctions. You can also request a test.
  1. What should I do if I experience an issue with my AMI data?
    Contact your utility. They can quickly investigate and correct it.
  1. Does AMI improve my utility’s customer service?
    Yes. Customer service reps can access real-time data to better address concerns.

Smart Tech & Renewables

  1. Does AMI support renewable energy integration?
    Yes. AMI meters are bi-directional and support solar integration.
  1. Does AMI support electric vehicle (EV) adoption?
    Yes. It helps utilities understand and plan for EV charging patterns.
  1. How does AMI impact future energy programs?
    It enables time-of-use rates, demand response, and future grid innovations.
  1. Is AMI compatible with smart home devices?
    Yes. While it doesn’t control devices, it works alongside them for better monitoring.
  1. Is AMI compatible with future energy technologies?
    Yes. It supports battery storage, microgrids, and other innovations.
  1. Will my AMI data show me if I’m using too much energy at certain times?
    Yes. The data reveals spikes in usage that help pinpoint issues or habits driving costs.

Customer Support & Opt-Out

  1. Can I opt out of AMI?
    Yes, per Vermont law 30 V.S.A § 2811.
  1. What if I don’t want an AMI meter?
    You have the right to opt out. Contact your utility for options. If you wish to opt out, please communicate this wish with your utility in writing.
  1. Does AMI increase the likelihood of power outages?
    No. It actually helps reduce downtime by alerting the utility instantly when issues arise. It supports energy efficiency, reduces need for excess generation, and enables renewable integration.

Billing & Energy Use

AMI enables more detailed billing, providing a clearer and more accurate view of your electricity usage.


While AMI measures overall electricity usage, tracking specific appliances requires additional tools like smart plugs or energy monitors.


AMI tracks when energy is used most, helping customers adjust usage if time-of-use rates are offered.


AMI systems typically transmit usage date every 15 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the utility's configuration.


Access to AMI data varies- some utilities provide customer portals for near real-time viewing, while others may display data with a delay.


Privacy & Safety

1

AMI protects customer privacy by transmitting encrypted usage data without including personal identifiers.


2

AMI meters emit minimal radio frequency (RF) levels- well within federal safety standards and not considered harmful.


3

Data transmitted by AMI systems is encrypted and safeguarded with robust cybersecurity protocols.


4

AMI data is not shared with third parties without customer consent.

Installation & Equipment

Smart Tech, EVs & Renewables

AMI meters are bi-directional, making them compatible with solar and other renewable energy systems.


AMI helps utilities monitor & plan for EV charging patterns, supporting broader EV integration.


AMI enables demand response programs and supports future grid innovations.


AMI is compatible with smart home tech, enhancing energy monitoring even though it doesn't control those devices.


AMI is designed to support emerging tech like battery storage, microgrids, and future energy programs.


Opt Out

Under Vermont law 30 VSA § 2811, customers have the right to opt out of AMI ​

If customers experience issues with AMI data, they should contact their utility for prompt investigation & resolution.


Customers who prefer not to have an AMI meter may opt out by communicating their request in writing to their utility.


Questions? Reach out to your local utility's customer service team with any concerns or more details.