Michael and Denise Reilly are learning how to read their power meter. It’s going to become a monthly ritual for the couple, and say everyone should do the same to prevent the shocking $1,400 bill they received last month. Michael says, “We thought there was a decimal mistake or something.”
Of that bill, over $1,200 was a backbill for power used months ago. EPCOR had been estimating their bills for that time because the meter reading company, Fortis Alberta, didn’t provide actual meter readings. Denise says, “Apparently, our route got changed and the meter reading company didn’t show up for three months.”
While Fortis contracts out its meter readings, the Reillys say no one will take responsibility for the mistake. Denise says, “If I had a subcontractor like that, I would fire them because they’re not doing their job.”
The Reillys built an addition on their home and added two heaters. They kept an eye on their bills, which were only slightly higher. Denise says estimated bills blindside customers, and had they known they were using too much energy, “We could have turned down our heaters, and turned off our fans.”
Michael says, “Why should we have to pay a huge backbill because they can’t seem to get it together to come out and read our meters on a regular basis.”
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This could happen to anyone and not just involve electricity bills. Alberta legislation requires meters to be read every two months. The Energy and Utilities Board requires an actual meter read at least twice a year. The Reillys say six months isn’t acceptable, but Fortis Alberta says a reading every month would cost customers more.
Jennifer MacGowan of Fortis Alberta says, “We don’t physically read meters every month because it would be cost prohibitive for us to do that. We have over 430,000 customers in central and southern Alberta.”
Mike MacBeath of EPCOR says, “Customers are obligated to pay for the power they do consume, and unfortunately, when meters are read every two months but the bill is issued every month, there will be circumstances where a customer will have to pay more.”
Fortis Alberta is waiting for approval to install digital meters across the province by 2010. The units would virtually eliminate estimated billing.
In the meantime, the Reillys will keep plugging away at their home meter readings, and paying off their massive bill. The couple has already switched power companies.
Fortis Alberta says everything from bad weather to locked gates and aggressive dogs can prevent meter readings from being done.
Anyone can read his or her own power or water meter. You simply sign up with the company to call in your monthly readings. You can also go online. For example, EPCOR’s website (http://www.epcor.com) has photos of every meter imaginable. You simply select the meter you have on your home, and then follow the steps to submit your reading. Companies will still come out to verify the reading, but it will help you to budget and ensure your bills are accurate.
Most utility companies allow you to read your own meter. Contact your service provider for more information.
© June 18, 2007: Global News Edmonton
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