Smart Meters
Smart Meters
Can I just keep my old meter?
No. Xcel is in the process of replacing all electric meters in Colorado. You can choose to select a new non-communicating meter instead of a smart meter, but you will incur a cost if you decline a smart meter. The smart meter sends billing information directly to Xcel, so Xcel saves money by not having to send technicians to read each customer’s meter. To read each non-communicating meter, it costs Xcel an average of $11.84 per month for customers in the Denver Metro area and $23.64 per month for customers outside of the Denver Metro area. If you choose the non-communicating meter, this monthly cost will be added to your bill. In addition, if you choose to receive a non-communicating meter after a smart meter has been installed, you will be responsible for the one-time cost of sending a technician to exchange the meters. You can request a non-communicating meter through Xcel’s customer service department at 1-800-895-4999. If you opt not to receive a new communicating or “smart” meter, you will still be transitioned onto the new time-of-use rate structure unless you opt out of the rate as well.
Can I opt out of the TOU rate without opting out of receiving a smart meter?
Yes. Any customer can opt out of the TOU rate and instead receive service on a seasonal flat rate. Consumers with a verified medical condition may have a different flat rate available. Please contact Xcel at 1-800-895-4999 to discuss if this applies to you. The seasonal flat rate is higher in the 4-month summer period from June through September and lower the rest of the year, but the electricity rate is the same for all usage regardless of when it occurs and how much is used.
Why would I want a smart meter?
With a smart meter, you will be able to view and understand your own electric use in much greater detail. This information will help you decide if you would like to make changes to your consumption patterns (like running your dishwasher or clothes dryer overnight) and see how it can save you money. If you are able to make such changes, you may see a savings on your bill. Smart meters will also allow Xcel to maintain reliable service more efficiently. Any time there is a power outage, or even the onset of conditions that could potentially lead to a power outage, Xcel will automatically be notified so they can start working to resolve problems faster.
Will Xcel shut off or decrease my power after a new meter is installed?
No. Xcel will not randomly shut off or “throttle” your electricity. You as the consumer control when you use electricity and how much your home consumes. Xcel will only turn off service if there are past due bills and Xcel must provide prior notification to the account holder before this is done. Of course, if there is a safety issue or a power outage you may occasionally lose service for a period of time.