Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Program
Smart Water Meters
Macon Water Authority (MWA) is upgrading water meters across our service area as part of our Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) program.
This system modernization allows MWA to read meters remotely and more frequently, giving both the utility and our customers a clearer picture of water usage. Customers will also have access to their water usage information in near real time through a future online portal.
Most residential meters have already been upgraded in recent years and are AMI-ready. The current phase of this project will focus primarily on commercial and large meters, with remaining residential upgrades to follow.
How AMI Works
AMI meters use secure cellular technology to collect water usage data and transmit it to MWA’s system.
This allows for:
- More frequent and accurate meter readings
- Faster detection of leaks or unusual usage
- Customer access to water usage data through an online portal (coming soon)
Did You Know?
AMI technology has been widely used across the United States for more than 30 years, with over 70 million meters currently in operation.
Project Timeline
Meter upgrades will be completed in phases by geographic area:
- Spring 2026: Commercial, industrial, and large meter installations begin
- Late 2026: Remaining residential meter upgrades
- 2027: Project completion and follow-up work
Installation times will vary depending on the size and complexity of the meter.
What to Expect During Installation
MWA is partnering with an authorized contractor, Envocore, to complete installations.
Here’s what customers can expect:
- All MWA staff and contractors will be clearly identified
- Customers will be notified in advance before any work begins
- Water service will be temporarily interrupted during installation
- Clear access to your meter is required (please remove any obstructions)
- You do not need to be home for most installations
After installation, you may notice air in your water lines. If this occurs, simply run cold water for a few minutes until the line clears.
Benefits of AMI for Customers
AMI provides several important benefits:
- Faster identification of leaks or unusual water use
- More accurate and frequent meter readings
- Access to near real-time water usage data
- Ability to track usage trends over time
- Potential alerts for high or continuous water usage
These tools help customers better understand and manage their water use.
Commercial Customers (Large Meters)
Commercial, industrial, and institutional customers require additional coordination due to the size and complexity of their meters.
How You’ll Be Notified
MWA and Envocore will coordinate through several steps:
- Email notification (if an email address is on file)
- On-site assessment to evaluate installation needs
- Scheduling call to coordinate installation time
- 72-hour reminder call prior to installation
- Door hanger notice after installation is complete
Installations are typically scheduled during evenings or weekends to minimize business disruption.
Before Installation
Please ensure:
- Clear and safe access to the meter
- Any landscaping or obstructions are removed
If uninterrupted service is required, temporary solutions may be discussed during the site visit.
Additional Benefits for Commercial Customers
- More precise daily, weekly, and monthly usage data
- Ability to compare usage across multiple accounts
- Leak alerts and usage monitoring tools
- Improved water management and cost control
Residential Customers
Do I Need a New Meter?
Many residential meters replaced since 2022 are already AMI-enabled and may not require additional work.
If your meter does need to be upgraded, you will be notified in advance.
How You’ll Be Notified
- Postcard notification 2–4 weeks before work begins in your area
- Door hanger left after installation
You do not need to be home for installation.
Why Was My Neighbor’s Meter Not Replaced?
Some meters are already AMI-ready, so not every home will require a replacement.
Benefits for Residential Customers
- Early detection of leaks
- More accurate billing
- Access to near real-time usage data
- Alerts for unusual or high water use
- Tools to better manage household water consumption
Data Security and Privacy
MWA is committed to protecting customer information.
AMI meters:
- Only transmit water usage data
- Do not collect personal information
- Do not record audio or video
Multiple layers of security are used to protect customer data.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I Keep My Current Meter?
No. MWA is transitioning to AMI technology to improve system efficiency, accuracy, and long-term service reliability for the entire community.
Questions?
If you have questions about the AMI program:
Macon Water Authority
Envocore (Installation Questions)