News & Notices

Collus PowerStream smart meters have proven safety record

Posted: August 15, 2014

Models used in Ontario are different than those used in Saskatchewan

COLLINGWOOD, ON August 14, 2014– Following recent reports in the media of several fires in locations where smart meters were installed in Saskatchewan, Collus PowerStream is assuring customers that the devices installed at their homes and businesses are safe.

Although the smart meters in use locally by Collus PowerStream were manufactured by Sensus, the same company that produced the devices deployed in Saskatchewan, the models are different.  Also, Collus PowerStream has installed more than 15,500 units since 2008 without encountering any fire-related issues.

All smart meters in Canada must meet stringent requirements for safety (American National Standard Institute) and accuracy (Measurement Canada) and are thoroughly tested for by both the manufacturer and the utility.

Collus PowerStream emphasizes that a combination of the company’s rigorous training methods on the proper installation of smart meters and the overall safety record of the meters installed to date are evidence as to why the utility’s customers need not be concerned.  Furthermore, Collus PowerStream has a built in technology to measure the temperature of the meter, which enables the company to actively investigate any potential issues.

BACKGROUND 
• Since 2008, Collus PowerStream has installed more than 15,500 Sensus smart meters consisting of three different model types. 
• Collus PowerStream experienced no fires, or other catastrophic events, at the time of the installation the Sensus meters or subsequently. 
• 35 other Ontario electric utilities have installed over one million Sensus meters that are also different from the model being used in Saskatchewan. 

ABOUT COLLUS POWERSTREAM
Collus PowerStream is a jointly-owned utility by the Town of Collingwood and PowerStream Inc. that provides reliable electricity to customers in Collingwood, Stayner, Creemore and Thornbury. Together, we will grow, maximize opportunities and exceed customer and shareholder expectations.

ABOUT SENSUS 
Sensus is a leading clean technology solutions company offering smart meters, communication systems, software and services for the electric, gas, and water industries. Sensus technology helps utilities drive operational efficiency and customer engagement with applications that include advanced meter reading, data acquisition, demand response, distribution automation, home area networking and outdoor lighting control. 

CONTACT:                
Collus PowerStream 
Glen McAllister 
Manager, Billing & Regulatory
Direct: 705-445-1800 ext 2274
Email: gmcallister@collus.com

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