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IMH Implementation Project

We install Intelligent Meter Hub (IMH) meters in all of our NWT communities as the previous meters were at the end of their life. NTPC has been using similar metering technology in different communities throughout the NWT for over 10 years.  The IMH meters are the current industry standard. They are two way RF (radio frequency) meters, which will help improve safety and reliability, enhance customer service, and improve our operational efficiencies. 

The IMH meter have many benefits including:

  • Improved safety and reliability through faster and precise outage notification and a reduction in the damage caused by illegal electricity diversions.

  • Enhanced customer service by reporting electricity use accurately, eliminating estimated bills, simplifying the process of opening and closing an account when moving, and reducing the need for onsite visits by field crews.

  • Reduced electricity theft resulting in lost revenue—a cost that is carried by all honest NTPC customers.

  • Improved operational efficiency and reduce wasted electricity through voltage optimization and outage notification. Lower operating costs are passed on to all customers in rates.

  • They support greater customer choice and control by offering optional in-home feedback tools that provide direct and timely information to customers about their electricity consumption.

  • They will modernize the Northwest Territories’ electricity system by replacing obsolete meters, and creating the foundation for supporting new uses of electricity such as electric vehicles and customer generation

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about IMH?

1. Have we installed the IMH meters in my community?

The IMH meter change out portion of this project has been completed as of October 2020.  We are still currently working on implementing the networking for the communities of Tsiigehtchic, Sachs Harbour and Colville Lake.

 

2. What are these new meters you’re installing? Are they Smart Meters?

The new Intelligent Meter Hubs or IMH are the industry standard. They are two-way meters that allow us to read your meter remotely but also to connect you from a distance, know when your power is out. They are also referred to as smart meters.

 

3. What brand of meters are being installed?

The meters being installed are manufactured by Landis & Gyr.

 

4. Are these the same meters that cause fires in people’s home?

The meters we are installing are manufactured by Landis & Gyr this is not the same as the meters attributed to this issue.  Our technicians also take extra care any time they change meters to ensure that the connections are clean and secure to decrease any risks that might be associated with changing out meters.

 

5. Do these meters pose a health risk?  I heard that they have radio waves that affect people?

Just like your FM radio, television and cell phone, our electricity meters communicate using radio signals.

Safety is our top priority. We've reviewed the scientific research on wireless technology. After decades of studies, health authorities have confirmed that there are no demonstrable health effects from exposure to low-level radio frequency signals.

Health Canada has determined that the radio frequency from a smart meter operates well within their Safety Code 6 and that the exposure from these meters does not pose a public health risk. We will continue to ensure that our technology operates within Health Canada’s Safety Code. If you would like more information from Health Canada visit:  www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/meters-compteurs-eng.php#a2

Here are the facts about our meters:

  • Our electricity meters communicate for just three minutes a day which includes relaying your electricity-use information and the coordination signals between our meters.

  • Unlike other wireless technology, our meters use low power signals - about one watt.

 

6.  Does the new meter cost more? 

There is no additional cost to our customers for this meter.  Meters have a defined life and the meters in your community are scheduled to be replaced.

 

7.  What is the difference between the old style meter and the new style meter?

  • Old meters communicated to our power plant over the existing powerlines using them like a phone land line.  The new meters use RF or radio frequency like a radio or cell phone, though at a much lower signal strength.
  • Old meters recorded the meter read approximately every 24 hours.  The new meters record meter readings every 2 hours.  This allows customers with much more information about their electricity usage.
  • New meters allow customers to have an optional electricity monitoring device in their home.  This provides real time reporting of electrical demand and usage.
  • Move in customers can be connected remotely not having to wait for a technician to go to their house.
  • New meters automatically reports power outages on customer locations.  This speeds up response time and isolates where the problem exists shortening outage duration.

 

8. What if I don’t want the new meter?

Please refer this question to a Customer Care manager.