More Smart Meters Are Coming To Western New York

As much as technology has evolved and improved over the years, many aspects of our daily lives continue to function as they have for over 100 years.

Just looking around some parts of Buffalo, there are many sections in the region that still use lead water pipes and sewers made of wood. Given that cities like Buffalo still contain tons of old infrastructure that is in need of being replaced, we're finally starting to see some things being updated.

In addition to the hundreds of millions that are being spent to improve Buffalo's water system, internet infrastructure, and more, we're also starting to see some new changes to our electric grid in Western and Central New York.

National Grid Is Installing Smart Meters In Western New York

Some areas of New York have already installed smart electric meters. NYSEG and RG&E customers throughout the 716 and 585 areas have seen smart meters installed, and now it appears that National Grid customers in Western New York are next on the list to undergo the change.

It's been around 18 months since smart meters have started to appear in upstate New York, and according to the Buffalo News, National Grid is on a journey to install these new electric meters for the more than 530,000 customers it has in this part of the state.

What Is A Smart Meter?

According to the US Department of Energy, a Smart Meter works just like a typical utility meter, except that it also provides two-way communication between you, your home or business, and the utility company. This can help the utility know about blackouts and maintain more reliable electrical service.

Officials say that it will make energy use more efficient by providing customers with direct access to their energy data through an app or online portal. While critics have complained that their bills have skyrocketed since the meters were installed.