Smart Meters
Franklin PUD utilizes advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), otherwise known as smart meters. If you don't find what you are looking for here, you can always contact our Customer Service Department at (509) 547-5591. We're here to help!
What is a smart meter? It’s a meter that communicates using digital technology – like your smartphone – and allow for safe and secure two-way communication between your meter and Franklin PUD. The smart meter records your energy usage information which is used to generate bills, run a more reliable and efficient power grid, and deliver a higher level of service to our customers.
Why do we use smart meters? With smart meters, we receive information in real time which allows us to read your meter remotely, respond to outages faster, and provide you with more information about your energy usage. In the past, you have had to provide us with a key to your gate, leave latches unlocked, or confine your dogs to allow meter reading. Now, because the meters are read remotely, you only need to provide entry for periodic maintenance.
How can I see my energy data from my smart meter? To access your usage and account information, you'll need to register for an account through SmartHub, our account management software system. If you don't have a SmartHub account, you can register for one by going to our website at www.franklinpud.com or downloading the SmartHub app (available for Apple or Android devices). The registration process is simple and takes only a few minutes. Just be sure to have a copy of your bill handy.
Do I own the meter? No. Meters, much like power poles and transformers, are owned by Franklin PUD.
What if I have life-support equipment at my home? If you operate life-support medical equipment at your home or business, please call our Customer Service Department at (509) 547-5591 to let us know if you have special needs or circumstances that require you to have advanced notice of any meter maintenance.
Is my information secure? Yes. Your privacy is important to Franklin PUD. We maintain strict confidentiality and privacy policies and use state-of-the-art technology to safeguard your information. All meters, communication, and information management systems are subject to the same security standards that have kept the energy grid safe for years. The energy usage information coming from our meters is encrypted, and the meters do not collect, store, or transmit personally identifiable information. For additional information, please read our Customer Privacy Rights Statement.
Will radio frequency (RF) emissions come from the smart meter? Yes, but those radio frequency emissions are well below the RF levels produced by other common household devices like mobile phones, baby monitors, microwaves, and TV’s – and are a small fraction of the limits set by the Federal Communications Commission, the agency that enforces the safety limits of RF emissions. Read more about smart meters and radio frequency emissions here.
What if I don’t want a smart meter installed at my home? If you have concerns about the new smart meters, you may choose to opt-out. For residential customers there will be an opt-out fee of $90 and an additional monthly fee of $15 to cover some of the cost of manually reading your meter. For more information on opting out, please see our Rules and Regulations for Electric Service or contact our Customer Service Department for details and more information at (509) 547-5591.