CoServ Electric announces the CoServ eCoGrid, an advanced metering system and foundation for a new CoServ Electric distribution technology initiative. The CoServ eCoGrid consists of a robust two-way communications network, advanced metering, distribution automation, and personal energy management applications. 

To learn more about the project, check out the:

• Project Timeline—Learn how the CoServ eCoGrid was conceived, and how it has progressed on the path to full deployment by April 2013.
• Proof of Concept Information—Starting on March 1, 2011, CoServ deployed 20,000 meters across Prosper, Frisco, and Little Elm. Read details, watch a Member testimonial, and view the deployment map.
• Deployment Map—View the full deployment map and estimate when CoServ will be installing in your neighborhood.
• eCoGrid Videos—From Member testimonials and CoServ technicians explaining the change-out process and measurement of radio frequency (RF) to instructional excerpts on “the basics,” explore the video library for a cutting-edge look at a cutting-edge initiative.
• Cyber Security—Explore how CoServ values all Member information and proprietary data, and the lengths we go to prevent security issues while ensuring we follow all privacy regulations.
• EXPO Information—Learn how we created a traveling road show, and held five EXPOs across our service area to present CoServ Employees and senior executives to answer questions and demonstrate the meter change-out process.
• Meter Change-out Process—See in detail exactly how CoServ representatives will remove the current meter and replace it with an advanced one.
• Meter Testing Process—Find out how the meters undergo an extensive battery of tests and quality control checks.
• Meter Accuracy and Meter Displays—View the different settings you’ll see on your advanced meter and learn what information is displayed.
• FAQ—A wide spectrum of questions involving a litany of topics related to the CoServ eCoGrid distribution technology initiative. Many Members like you have asked these questions; here are the straight answers.  
• Member Communications—Every piece of collateral we’ve mailed to our Members is available for your quick reference if you can’t locate the original.
• Resources and Studies—Many media reports and Internet sites about advanced meters are inaccurate. In response, we’ve compiled multiple reports, conducted our own research, and ensured that you have the correct information about the CoServ eCoGrid.

In 2010, CoServ Electric’s Board of Directors approved the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) $17.2 million grant supporting the project. CoServ Electric’s President and CEO Mike Dreyspring stated, “If we’re to continue to earn our Members’ trust, we must innovate and empower them with advanced technology to manage energy use. The path to the CoServ eCoGrid will provide operational efficiencies that will reduce costs, streamline operations, improve system reliability, and eventually offer Members new technology to monitor and reduce energy usage in their homes and businesses.” 

Despite some negative publicity about advanced meters during the winters of 2009 and 2010, the Public Utility Commission’s study confirmed that advanced meters are accurately measuring and recording usage, as well as communicating that information for use in customer billing. We also encourage Members to review the California Council on Science and Technology report, which combined results from numerous studies on the topic of smart meters. We’d also recommend reviewing the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) case study, which evaluated the RF output of one model of meter, and the Detailed Radio Frequency Reading Report, which is our own compilation of testing and research into the RF output of advanced meters.

Prior to full deployment of the CoServ eCoGrid, a meter reader would visit Members’ homes and businesses each month to collect and record meter readings. The accuracy of recording meter readings is tested weekly and has averaged more than 99.67 percent accuracy over the last six years. Once the CoServ eCoGrid is deployed and readings are collected electronically, the accuracy standard is expected to increase as a result of the new technology.

CoServ Electric currently offers a variety of resources to help Members reduce energy usage, including free energy audits. Financial incentives are also available through the Think Green Rebate Program. In addition, CoServ Electric’s Board recognizes its responsibility to embrace technology that further reduces usage—eCoGrid is the key to innovation allowing Members to manage their energy use and reduce costs.

All CoServ Electric Members will receive advanced meters beginning in Summer 2012 and continuing through 2013. You can check the status of your meter installation by logging on to your CoServ Online account and looking for a black, yellow, or green meter icon next to your account number. When your icon turns yellow, your installation is scheduled to take place in the next 90 days, and when the icon turns green, your meter has been installed.  

Special meter installation processes will be offered for certain businesses and critical care accounts. Learn more about the project by watching our videos.

If you don't yet have an advanced meter and are wondering when we'll be coming to your area, check out the deployment map for 2012-2013.

To learn more about how CoServ protects its Members' confidential information and data, view our Privacy Policy.

This material is based upon work supported by the Department of Energy under Award Number DE-OE0000237. This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States Government. Neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government or any agency thereof.