Electric company to install new meters

NorthWestern Energy will be installing new electric meters and gas modules in Thompson Falls as part of a technology upgrade project that will enable two-way meter communication between NorthWestern Energy and its advanced meters on customers’ homes and businesses.

“Tru-Check, which NorthWestern Energy has contracted with to install the new advanced meters, is working in the area now and expects to have that work complete by mid-July,” said Jo Dee Black, NorthWestern Energy Public Relations Specialist.

Black says a Tru-Check technician will be replacing electric meters and gas modules on the 1, 657 electric customers in the Thompson Falls area during weekly business hours Monday through Friday. NorthWestern says there will be a short interruption of electric service during the installation of new electric meters for residential customers. The technician will knock on your door before the installation begins but customers do not need to be home during the process.

A door hanger will be left to let customers know that the upgrade was successful and include instructions to make an appointment if needed. NorthWestern asks customers to make sure their meter is accessible. NorthWestern says customers have the right to opt out of the use of the advanced meters and will be bypassed but may be required to pay a tariff charge.

Technicians will return in about eight weeks to install new gas modules for customers who receive natural gas service from NorthWestern. There shouldn’t be an interruption of gas service during this installation.

For questions visit, NorthWesternEnergy.com/meters. If customers have questions about opt-out rights, NorthWestern says to contact the Montana Public Service Commission at 1-800-646-6150.