ComEd has installed its one millionth smart meter in its Chicago-area service territory. The mission of installing nearly four million smart meters began in 2013 and is expected to be complete in 2018 – three years ahead of schedule.
The smart meters use two-way radio communications to collect usage information and securely transmit it to ComEd through a wireless connection.
Recently, ComEd reported to the Illinois Commerce Commission that the smart meters had helped it surpass its 2014 targets in several categories including reduction of estimated bills and uncollected expenses and consumption on inactive meters. The positive performance results help to lower operational costs, which are passed to customers as rate savings.
ComEd is working with Silver Spring Networks on additional opportunities to use the smart meter communications network. For instance, earlier this year, ComEd introduced a pilot program to deploy energy-efficient LED streetlights in Lombard and Bensenville. Via a web portal, the municipalities will be able to control the dimming and daily scheduling of the lights, and receive immediate notification if a lamp is in need of maintenance. Additionally, control can be given to first responders to manage streetlights on-demand during emergency situations.
