Jackson EMC is conducting a project to study the benefits of Automated Meter Reading (AMR).

AMR allows us to retrieve meter information remotely, rather than manually. This study will determine if AMR will improve efficiency and customer service.

AMR remotely reads members' meters and transfers the data to our billing system. Several utilities are now using AMR systems to improve service and reduce meter reading costs. There are other benefits associated with AMR such as better reporting during an outage caused by a storm and transformer loading data.

Members' information remains secure through the remote system. Personal customer information isn't transmitted, only meter numbers and meter readings. Our AMR study will run through 2007, and we'll update you on our findings as we get closer to making a decision.

"New technology that benefits the member is our goal. The AMR technology is an opportunity for us to explore whether this new system will enhance customer service to help us better meet our members' needs," says Randall Pugh, Jackson EMC president/CEO.