The McPherson BPU Is excited to announce that customers will soon receive an upgrade to their metering system. The BPU plans to install Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) equipment at all locations beginning in July 2020. Initially, the project was slated to start in June; however, due to shipping delays caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the project’s start date was delayed and will begin in July. This technology upgrade communicates energy usage and outage information to BPU through a secure wireless network to provide better, more responsive service.

Below, you will find just a few of the benefits of AMI Meters:

  1. Faster Outage Detection.  The new AMI meters will jointly notify BPU when customers are experiencing a power outage resulting in faster restoration time.
  2. Remote Meter Readings.  The new AMI meters provide meter readings.  Without the need to physically visit your home on a monthly basis, customers will no longer have to worry about unlocking gates or restraining pets.
  3. Supports Energy Conservation Efforts. Customers will be able to view their daily energy consumption online, which allows them the opportunity to monitor their usage and improve energy efficiency.
  4. Improve Reliability.  The new AMI meters allow BPU to electronically recognize voltage issues, transformer issues, and maintenance needs prior to failure or outages

Crews plan to start with residential customers during the second week of July before moving on to commercial and industrial customers.  The project is expected to be wrapped up in Q4 2020.