Your electric meter tracks your energy use. Idaho Power has more than 660,000 meters, and 99.5% of those are read remotely — directly and securely through the power lines. Remote technology also allows us to restore power more quickly after outages and requires less use of company vehicles, saving money and reducing pollution. In areas that have more frequent connect/disconnect activity, or for safety or access issues, we can also remotely start and stop service. That means faster service.
The security of your data is important to us. We take physical and cyber precautions to make sure our system is secure. We keep the information we gather from your meter confidential, but it is available to you in My Account — your online portal that lets you monitor and manage your energy use. It can even help you reduce your use and lower your bills.
Download and print this brochure to learn how to calculate your energy use by reading your meter.
For other questions about remote meters, view Frequently Asked Questions.
Safe Meter Access
Please ensure Idaho Power can always access your meter in case of equipment maintenance or outage restoration needs.
- If your meter is behind a fence, please keep the gate nearest the meter unlocked and functional.
- Call 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151 to let us know if we should expect pets when accessing your meter. Even the friendliest dogs can change their tune when strangers enter their backyards.
- If possible, please keep your pets inside on days you know Idaho Power might visit. We want to keep our employees and your pets safe and secure.
- Remove any large obstacles preventing access to the meter (overloaded trash cans, foliage on the meter, yard debris, children’s toys, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a remote connect/disconnect meter?
A remote connect/disconnect meter enables Idaho Power to connect or disconnect service remotely. Technological advancements in these meters eliminate the need to dispatch field personnel to connect or disconnect service at customers’ locations.
Why is Idaho Power installing remote connect/disconnect meters?
This new technology is more efficient and helps us deliver better, more timely service. Remote connect/disconnect meters also are a more environmentally responsible option, reducing our crews’ trip time and vehicle mileage.
How does Idaho Power decide where to install these meters?
Idaho Power installs these meters where new connections and disconnections are more frequent, or due to safety concerns and access difficulties.
How many have been installed?
Idaho Power has installed more than 50,000 remote connect/disconnect meters — more than 8% of more than 660,000 meters across our service area.
When did Idaho Power begin connecting and disconnecting customers using remote meters?
Idaho Power began installing remote connect/disconnect meters in 2014.
Will Idaho Power install more remote connect/disconnect meters?
The company continues to install remote connect/disconnect meters.
How will Idaho Power let customers know they have remote connect/disconnect meters?
Letters and inserts in past-due bill reminders notify customers they’ve received remote connect/disconnect meters and explain how the new technology helps Idaho Power deliver more reliable service. The letters and inserts cover payment options, information on energy assistance programs and how to find more information online or by phone. They inform customers that, because of the new meters’ remote capability, Idaho Power will no longer accept payments at the door to prevent disconnections.
What should you do if your service is disconnected remotely?
If your service location has a remote connect/disconnect meter and service has been disconnected, please contact us to discuss reconnection of services. If you made your payment on the day of a scheduled disconnection, please call to let us know you have paid. Please provide your receipt number. Once payment is received, our new meters allow us to reconnect service remotely For immediate customer service, call 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151 toll-free.
For assistance with a PDF on this page or to request a PDF in an alternate format, please contact Customer Service at 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151