Utility installs 48,000 Smart Meters

 
Thunder Bay Hydro officials say the campaign to replace electricity meters in the city continues in preparation for major rate changes in 2011.

Crews began installing smart meters last year at the homes and small businesses of Thunder Bay Hydro customers. Vice-president of Customer Service and Conservation Tim Wilson says they've installed about 48,000 meters so far.

The company now has another 1,500 Smart Metres left to install. The new devices will be put to use next year when the rate system changes. Customers will then be introduced to a time-of-use rate system, where customers pay a specific rate depending on how much electricity they use and what time they use it.

The utility has spent an estimated $8 million putting the new metres in place, said Thunder Bay Hydro’s Tim Wilson. To help pay for this cost customers will see a small fee increase on their bills spread out over a number of years.

Wilson added that the majority of the remaining 1,500 meters to be installed are at indoor locations that require appointments.

Wilson said he expects all the meters to be in by the end of this year.