Dubois REC is in the process of bringing you the latest advancement in meter reading equipment – Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI). This state-of-the-art technology will allow us to remotely record your electric consumption and eliminate the need for meters to be manually read each month.

Installation of AMI meters for every member of Dubois REC is aimed at improving customer service, while providing our members with the most accurate billing possible. The towers and infrastructure needed to transmit the information from the meters by radio frequency are installed. We will soon begin the systematic installation of new meters throughout our service territory. Click here to complete a survey and have a chance to win a $50 bill credit.

Benefits of AMI: Improves customer service by minimizing the need for customers to read their meters and submit the data monthly to Dubois REC. The ability to remotely read your meter “on demand” to ensure it is working properly and address billing concerns more quickly and accurately. Integrates with our present computerized outage management system to share data and help us allocate crews more efficiently. Reduction in instances of electricity theft. A reduction in the number of vehicles on the road; reducing traffic, greenhouse gasses, and saving fuel.

Future AMI Benefits: As the AMI system is installed and enabled, the time needed to handle service orders, such as starting or stopping power, will be reduced. Access energy use information online — you’ll be able to better understand and monitor your own energy use. Once the program is installed, we’ll be able to offer innovative rate options that meet your lifestyle — you’ll be able to better manage your energy use and control your energy bill. Additional features will come as technology advances.

AMI Questions & Answers

Q: How does AMI work?
A: Using wireless radio transmitters, AMI remotely reads members meters and then transfers the data into the billing system.

Q: Do I have to be at home when AMI is installed?
A: No. However, Dubois REC will notify you within one to two weeks before we change your meter so you will be prepared for the upgrade. We just need easy access to your meter.

Q: Will there be any interruption in my service during installation?
A: Yes, there is an interruption period of just a few minutes during installation.

Q: Will installing AMI raise the amount of my energy bill?
A: No. There is no service charge for installation and your rates will not be affected.

Q: Will AMI decrease my energy bill?
A: No, your new meter will not decrease the amount of your energy bill. However, in the future, the system will allow Dubois REC to offer you detailed energy usage information so you can better manage your home’s electrical usage.

Q: Is this new system really needed?
A: Dubois REC strives to provide our members with the best possible customer service, high reliability and low rates. The AMI technology will help us accomplish these goals.

Q: What information will be transmitted?
A: The only information transmitted is your meter readings and the meter identification number. Diagnostic information is also transmitted to verify that the meter is operating correctly or notify us of a power outage.

Q: Is my account information secure?
A: Yes, only meter readings and meter numbers are transmitted. Personal member information will not be transmitted.

Q: Will the AMI system interfere with my TV, radio or garage door opener?
A: No. The transmitting devices operate in compliance with FCC regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices. Our system operates in the licensed band in the range of 900 MHz with a transmit power of 25 to 5 watts.

Q: Do I need to reset my electric circuits?
A: On occasion, the replacement of your electric meter will cause a ground fault interrupter to trip, and it will need to be reset. This is especially critical if you have a freezer or refrigerator that uses a separate GFI circuit.

Q: Will I see a change in my service after AMI is installed?
A: The only significant change to your utility service will be that, once the AMI system is operating, you will no longer need to submit a monthly meter reading to our office. Service personnel may visit the meter periodically to confirm proper operation or perform routine maintenance.

Q: Do I need to maintain the AMI meters?
A: No. Dubois REC is responsible for all maintenance. Do not tamper with the meter or attempt to make adjustments. Teach children never to touch or play near utility facilities including meters and related devices. If you feel something is wrong with the equipment, please call 812-482-5454