How will Umatilla Electric Cooperative read the meters?
The Cooperative’s computer will communicate with the substation installed equipment via 900 MHZ radio and signal this equipment to request a meter reading. A reading request signal is sent over the power lines, and the TWACS meter responds back with the meter reading. The entire process takes a few seconds for a single meter reading. Will someone other than Umatilla Electric be able to read the TWACS meter? No. The TWACS computer software is a proprietary system. The substation communications equipment must be set-up by meter model and serial number and each meter must be added to the computer by its serial number and substation location. Someone using a home computer will not be able to read this electric meter. In fact, the new meter reading system does not increase the risk of hacking. Additionally, other electric companies with TWACS systems will not be able to read the Cooperative’s meters. Members themselves may physically read the meters and as other options become available sub
