About Your Smart Meter

Benefits of smart meters

Faster detection of power outages: Smart meters quickly identify power outages, allowing for immediate problem-solving without needing to visit your home.
More control over your energy bill: Smart meters capture data about your energy use in near real-time. This allows the introduction of tools that provide greater control of your energy bills.
Better integration of cleaner energy sources: Smart meters enable better integration of rooftop solar or other home renewable energy systems.
Pollution reduction: Collecting meter readings wirelessly means we no longer have to send trucks to every property we serve. This reduces vehicle emissions.

Frequently asked questions

How do smart meters work?

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.

How often does the signal transmit?

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. Alliant Energy is not using a mesh network.

How common is this type of signal?

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.

Are radio frequency levels regulated?

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.

What type of information is being transmitted?

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

How secure is the information being sent from the customer’s meter to Alliant Energy?

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.

How do you ensure the accuracy of smart meters?

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.

Are smart meters safe?

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.

Is there an alternative to a smart meter?

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.

Suggested Topics

About your smart meter

Benefits of smart meters

Frequently asked questions

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