Upgrading our meter technology

AMI meters use a radio signal to receive and transmit information. They are part of a larger network where each meter sends signals to ATCO’s meter data collection system, so we can get an accurate reading of your usage. RF meters only transmit for milliseconds and at levels that are half of a smartphone! 

According to Health Canada, the device poses no health risks. Remember cordless phones? The AMI device uses the exact same frequency! In fact, they have lower emissions than many common household devices (ex. microwave ovens, cordless phones and internet routers). The device is authorized for use in Canada by Industry Canada.

No. The network was designed to operate on many different frequencies to avoid interference with other devices. The network changes frequencies regularly to avoid interference with other devices that operate in the same frequency space.

The network does not operate in the same frequency space as cell phone towers and transmission lines, so they’re not affected by those technologies. The software systems installed with your meter provide additional checks to ensure the readings and communications are operating correctly.

The only data transmitted over the network is the unique identification number of the metering device and how much electricity has been used. No customer data (name, address, phone number, etc.) is monitored, so your privacy is always protected. Additionally, the data from each meter is encrypted before being transmitted.

AMI meters are being installed in communities in our service territory as previous meters reach their end of the certified product lifecycle and become obsolete. AMI meters are the next generation of electricity meters and just like upgrading your cell phone, we're upgrading meters for our customers. 

We're currently installing AMI meters by community, to learn when your community is scheduled to begin installing AMI meters, give us a call at 1-867-633-7000.

The meter changeover is very quick and safe; an ATCO field representative will present themselves at your door, explain the simple process and may need to access your yard or side yard to complete the changeover. The field representative will safely disconnect power for approximately five minutes to remove the old meter, install and connect the new meter. Power will be safely re-established and the field representative will remove all equipment and materials, including the old meter. All staff will wear appropriate safety and personal protective equipment as well as ATCO clothing and identification.

Yes. The AMI meters used by ATCO Electric Yukon meet all required Canadian standards. They are approved by Measurement Canada for billing purposes, certified by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada for wireless operation, and meet electrical safety requirements under UL 2735 certification. These approvals confirm the meters are safe, tested, and authorized for use in Canada.

Safety features vary by meter generation. Earlier AMI meters include a temperature alarm that alerts if the meter begins to overheat. Newer AMI 2.0 models include arc detection technology, which can identify electrical issues within the meter, in the meter base, and in the surrounding wiring. These features are designed to help identify potential issues early.

No. AEY has been using digital meters for more than 20 years and has not experienced any failures caused by internal meter overheating. The meters currently in use are designed and tested to meet strict safety standards.

Some past incidents referenced in media reports involved Sensus meters that were not approved for use in Canada and were not CSA-certifie.  In 2014, SaskPower reported 10 fires involving these meters, which were not properly sealed against environmental conditions.

Those meters were removed and replaced. This situation does not apply to the meters currently used by AEY, which meet all Canadian safety and certification requirements.

AEY employees receive specialized training on meter exchange procedures and inspect the meter base during installation for any visible damage or defects. This helps identify issues in customer-owned equipment before or during the exchange.

Customers are responsible for maintaining their meter socket. This includes keeping the area around the meter clear and dry and addressing any signs of damage, corrosion, or animal activity. If there are concerns, customers can contact AEY for assistance.