To continue delivering the safe, reliable power you expect, we are proactively upgrading our equipment. Just like a smartphone or computer, meter technology advances over time. It is standard utility industry practice to replace meters every 15-20 years as they reach the end of their useful life. Because our last system-wide changeout was in 2017, this upgrade puts equipment maintenance ahead of schedule. (Does this become too much info. Or does it back up our point?) 

By switching to new meters that are manufactured locally, we are also significantly reducing equipment costs — saving cooperative members money while updating the technology that keeps your household’s readings highly accurate across our entire 7,500-mile service area. 

You will not be caught off guard. You will receive direct mail from the co-op in advance, followed by targeted emails and text messages (for those opted in) informing you exactly when crews are heading to your specific area.  

You will also be able to track our progress using a continuously updated map right here on this webpage, detailing exactly when different areas are scheduled for their upgrades. 

To ensure you don't miss any updates, please take a moment to verify your contact information. Update your email address and sign up for Text Power alerts today.

No. Because the meter is located on the exterior of your home, as long as they can safely reach your meter, our contractors can complete the upgrade (or job or work) without you needing to schedule an appointment, take time off work or rearrange your schedule. We do ask that you please unlock gates and keep pets inside the day crews are in your area. 

Yes, there will be a very brief, planned power pause while the meter is changed. For the safety of our crews and your home's electrical panel, the contractor must briefly disconnect the power — typically for fewer than 15 minutes. We recommend resetting any digital clocks, appliances, or sensitive electronics once the contractor leaves a door hanger confirming the installation is complete. If your power doesn’t come back on, give us a call. 

No. There is no installation fee, and this upgrade will not result in any additional line items or surcharges on your bill. Routine equipment maintenance and infrastructure upgrades are already factored into the cooperative’s standard operating budget. 

Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. All authorized personnel carry a Blue Ridge picture ID badge and wear a safety vest. All vehicles will be clearly marked on both sides with “Contractor for Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative.” Crews won’t begin before 8 a.m. and will finish by 5 p.m. If you ever have a concern about someone on your property, you can call our member services line directly to verify their identity. 

Never. Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative will absolutely never send anyone to your door to demand payment, collect account numbers, or request personal information. Our contractors are there strictly to safely upgrade your equipment. If anyone claiming to be with us ever approaches your home asking for money, please close the door and call our member services line immediately.

To ensure reliability, this system-wide upgrade is a standard part of our cooperative service. While our membership bylaws do require access to update the cooperative-owned equipment on your property, our goal is to make this process as easy as possible for you. If you have unique circumstances or specific concerns about the installation at your home, please contact our team directly so we can talk through them. Link: Direct email address 

No. As part of our commitment to safety, all old meters are removed and returned to Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative facilities so their components can be properly recycled. 

If you have any questions or concerns about the meter upgrade in your area, our team is ready to help. For the fastest response, please email our dedicated project team directly at Link: Direct email address. You can also speak with our member services team by calling us at 800-240-3400.