Your advanced meter communicates with us using safe, secure low-level radio signals, just like your FM radio or TV, and is part of our system that provides reliable service every day.
What we receive
Your advanced meter only measures the total amount of electricity being used on the premises of your home or business. It does not identify the appliances or equipment using electricity.
You may be able to use the detailed consumption information to determine what devices in your house are using the most electricity because you know when things are turned on and off. The information being relayed to us is the same consumption information being downloaded manually by a meter reader, only it’s being sent more often.
Your security and privacy
Your security and privacy are very important to us. That’s why your personal account information, including your name, address and balance, is not transmitted over the advanced meter network. The information that is sent wirelessly, such as meter readings, is encrypted, meeting North American and international standards. Third-party security audits are also conducted regularly.
We place an extremely high priority on customer privacy and the protection of personal information. We are also governed by the British Columbia Personal Information Protection Act, which safeguards personal information. We will not sell or disclose our customers’ personal information, including details of their electricity consumption. See our privacy policy.
Your safety
Advanced meters are certified to meet both government and professional safety standards, including rigorous safety checks put out by Measurement Canada and Industry Canada. They also operate well within Health Canada’s wireless signal guidelines and comply with the strictest international standards.
The signals from the meters are much lower than common devices, such as Wi-Fi routers, cell phones and baby monitors. As an example, here are some common comparisons in frequencies.
Radio frequency compared*
*Measured in milliwatts per square centimetre (mW/cm²). Report on the Status of Research on Radiofrequency Exposure and Health in Relation to Advanced Metering Infrastructure, prepared by Exponent.
We encourage you to take advantage of the benefits that come with advanced meters, but we respect your right to request the radio-off option.