Smart Meters

Background

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), also known as "smart meters," is a fixed information technology (IT) system which is supposed to automate utility billing, optimize utility resources, and provide energy consumers with greater information on their electricity use.

A Final Decision was issued in the PG&E Opt-out proceeding, requiring opt-out participants to pay an initial fee of $75 and a monthly charge of $10 per month, with low-income customers charged an initial fee of $10 and $5 per month.

The CPUC approved Edison's smart meter Opt-out plan in April 2012.

Read more background.

The Public Advocates Office's Policy Position

Public Advocates Office (the Office) supported the use of AMI to the extent that it can provide net benefits to customers as projected when approval was granted by the CPUC. The Office recommends regulatory actions be taken, if necessary, to ensure AMI systems statewide provide a net benefit to customers.

• See the Office's report, "Case Study of Smart Meter System Deployment: Recommendations for Ensuring Ratepayer Benefits."  
• Smart Meter Opt-Out

Current Proceeding Status

See the proceeding docket.