About your smart meter

Our smart meter system uses remote, two-way wireless communication to retrieve customer meter data (meter number, energy usage and diagnostic information) and send it through a secure and proprietary network.

About one second per day, or roughly 30 seconds per month.

The smart electric meter usually signals seven times per day. Six of the signals indicate usage information and the seventh signal conveys energy diagnostics. There may be additional signals as outages or other diagnostic needs arise.

The smart natural gas meter sends six signals per day indicating usage information.

You may have heard of a "mesh network" where meters signal more often. We do not use a mesh network.

The smart meter signal uses low-energy radio frequency (RF). RF is used for many common devices like cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, baby monitors, Bluetooth® enabled devices, microwave ovens and TV towers.

Yes. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets RF limits. They require that all radio communicating devices be tested to ensure that they meet federal standards. RF from smart meters is many times lower than the FCC standard.

Only meter numbers, energy usage readings and diagnostic information are transmitted. Personal data is not collected.

We use the same advanced security and encryption technology as the banking, credit card and cable industries. We adhere to national cybersecurity standards to ensure privacy and security of smart meter data.

All of our smart meters are tested for accuracy at the factory, using calibrated reference standards.

While it’s not required, we also test samples of meters when we receive a shipment as a secondary check.

Yes. Smart meters are safer than older-style analog meters. Our meter installers are thoroughly trained and perform rigorous inspections during all meter installations.

An in-depth review of numerous scientific studies by the World Health Organization has confirmed that the small amount of RF energy is not harmful to human health.

Iowa customers can request a nonstandard meter. Please review the eligibility requirements for choosing the nonstandard meter alternative. Fewer than 1% of our customers choose the nonstandard meter. Additional charges apply.

You may also relocate your electric smart meter at cost.

Safety considerations may limit the ability to relocate your natural gas meter.