The City of San Diego water department does not employ smart meters, but are they gearing up to do so? Recently, a UCAN member tipped us off that the water department is installing new water meters capable of transmitting wireless reads.

When installing his new water meter after his old one flooded, one of the water department crew mentioned to our member that this is one of "their new smart meters." Upon closer inspection, he noticed that the manufacturer is Recordall - - the same company that manufactures SDG&E's Smart Meters.

After questioning the water department about this, they stated they do NOT have an electronic meter reading system - - this meter must be read manually, just like all the other meters. However, they did admit that this device does have the capability to send wireless reads. My contact assured me that the water department would have much to do before beginning such a venture.

Reading between the lines, it's pretty clear what's going on: the water department is gearing up to implement a smart meter system. I've heard rumors of the idea floating around, but this tells me it's under serious consideration. If I had to guess, I would say that when the water department needs to install a new meter, they are installing these bad boys. That way, by the time they have their ducks in a row for smart meters, a good amount of homes will already be set up with the meters they need.

My suggestion to the water department? Take heed of the mistakes the energy companies made in their Smart Meter roll out. Be transparent about your intentions, alert your customers to what you are doing, and make room for an opt out policy.

Have you had a new water meter installed recently? Does it look anything like this Model 35 Recordall? Send an email to contactus@ucan.org and let us know.