Rhode Island takes major step forward in modernizing its energy landscape with approval of Advanced Metering Functionality proposal
New technology will provide customers with greater control, choice, and convenience in managing their energy consumption.

PROVIDENCE, RI (September 28, 2023) – Rhode Island Energy is committed to investing in its energy system to help meet the state’s clean energy goals. A major step forward was taken in that direction this week when the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (Commission) authorized Rhode Island Energy to implement Advanced Metering Functionality (AMF) across the state over the next three years.

“The Commission’s approval to implement our AMF plan is an important step in modernizing the state’s energy infrastructure for the benefit of all Rhode Islanders,” said Dave Bonenberger, president of Rhode Island Energy. “We’ve seen the success of these new technologies across other PPL service territories, and customers should be excited about the advantages they’ll bring to their homes and businesses.”

Approximately 60% of the electric meters across the state are nearing the end of their design life and need to be replaced. The advanced meters will provide customers with greater control, choice, and convenience in managing their energy consumption. AMF technology will also help meet evolving customer expectations by enhancing outage management capabilities and enabling more convenient remote service connections. 

“We know that this endeavor will also help us deliver the clean energy network our customers and communities deserve. And importantly, it reflects a collaborative effort between Rhode Island Energy, our regulators, and key stakeholders to create a more efficient, resilient, responsive grid to meet 21st century demands,” Bonenberger added. 

As part of its decision, the Commission capped the potential capital cost of installing the new meters at approximately $153 million. The Company estimates that over the next few years, the total cumulative bill impact for a typical residential customer will vary from less than a $1 to less than $4 per month at the peak of the deployment schedule. Rhode Island Energy expects the first of the new meters to be rolled out in late 2024. In advance of deployment, the Company will engage customers with a robust communication plan, providing more details about the technology in advance of installation, as well as an opt-out option.

About Rhode Island Energy

Rhode Island Energy provides essential energy services to over 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity or natural gas. Our team of 1,300 employees is dedicated to helping Rhode Island customers and communities thrive, while supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Rhode Island Energy is part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions. For more information visit www.RIEnergy.com and stay connected on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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For further information: Ted Kresse, 401.799.7000
 

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