I'm sure you've heard a few smart meter myths — and your customers have, too. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can affect your customers' willingness to switch and their trust in you if the change is mandatory.
The first stage of any smart meter installation effort should be education. Promoting the value and benefits of these advanced meters and answering any questions your customers have should be a top priority.
Here are some of the misconceptions your customers may believe:
Myth 1: Smart meters don't keep data secure
Some people believe smart meters exist primarily as surveillance devices, which isn't true. Smart meters only record the total energy usage for their home or business, which analog meters also do.
The only difference between smart and analog meters is the accessibility and depth of information. Analog meters still collect a customer's energy use data and send it to the energy company, but smart meters allow customers to also take a closer look and how and when they use energy.
Educate customers on how they can use the smart meter data to take control of their energy use and lower costs. And, of course, let customers know that their energy company uses advanced security and encryption technology to keep their data safe, and that won't change once they have a smart meter.
Myth 2: Smart meters aren't as accurate as analog meters
All meter manufacturers are required to follow the performance standards set by the American National Standards Institute and test for accuracy, sharing results. Before a smart meter even leaves the facility, customers can be sure that meters meet or exceed standards and requirements.
Once installed, smart meters provide on-the-mark measurements for both the customer and energy company, ensuring accurate bills and more timely outage alerts.
Myth 3: Smart meters are a safety hazard
Smart meters go through rigorous tests to ensure they operate correctly and meet the requirements and standards set by the National Electric Safety Code. Manufacturers. Safety protocols confirm that meters resist heat, fire, voltage surges and overheating.
And when it comes to installation, if meters are installed by a trained professional that exercises standard safety precautions, smart meters pose no safety risk to the customer's home or business.
Myth 4: Installing smart meters is a waste of time
Some customers may argue that the time it takes to install a new meter and get acclimated isn't worth it. But smart meters help energy companies bring the benefits of a modernized grid to customers' doorsteps.
Once activated, smart meters improve power outage notification and can provide close to real-time energy usage information, which customers can use to make their homes and businesses more efficient — and save money.
Focus on the benefits
There are countless benefits to installing and using a smart meter. Increased reliability, convenience and control are just a few. Providing your customers with this helpful information and answering their questions early on strengthens your relationship and prepares them for the smart future.