Delawareans get new ways to monitor and manage electricity usage

The days of the meter reader are coming to an end for Delmarva Power, which is introducing new ways for customers to track their own energy usage. 

Installation of the new “smart meters” is nearly complete in Delaware.  The device measures a customer’s energy consumption, stores the information, and transmits the data electronically to the company.

Delmarva Power has now introduced Take Control Delaware, which will allow residential or business customers to see how much energy is being used daily. 

Delmarva Power Regional Vice President Glenn Moore says this will also help the customer know how much power it takes to run an air conditioner, washing machine, dishwasher or other high-energy appliance, and to adjust their usage accordingly.

“They can manage that usage over time to control and manage their energy bills,” Moore says.

Moore says technology is also being developed to allow the smart meter to control the hot water heater, the air conditioner or the refrigerator to maximize efficiency.

“It won’t really change the comfort level in your house,” Moore says.  “If you can change the amount of times a compressor in the refrigerator comes on or your air conditioner comes on just a little bit, and multiply that by 50-thousand or 100-thousand customers, then all of the customers can save a tremendous amount on their energy bill.”

More information on the smart meters and the Take Control Delaware program is also available at 1-855-NEW-METER.