In a recent meeting of the Nantucket Select Board, the spotlight turned to National Grid's ambitious plans for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), commonly known as the smart meter program. The discussion, led by Erica and featuring a presentation from National Grid representatives, aimed to inform the community about the upcoming changes and benefits associated with this new technology.

Lisa Morjera, the lead for community engagement at National Grid, introduced the initiative, emphasizing its importance in modernizing energy management on the island. The AMI program is designed to replace aging meters with smart technology that allows for two-way communication between the utility and its customers. This upgrade is not just a technical enhancement; it represents a shift towards a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

Jesse Harvey, who oversees AMI deployment in Massachusetts, elaborated on the features and benefits of the new system. The smart meters will provide customers with real-time data on their energy usage, allowing them to make informed decisions about their consumption. This capability is expected to empower residents to manage their energy more effectively, potentially leading to lower bills and increased energy efficiency.

One of the key advantages of the AMI program is its ability to alert both customers and National Grid to outages automatically. This means quicker response times and improved reliability in service. The technology also supports advanced features such as remote connections and disconnections, which streamline service management and reduce the need for on-site visits.

As the meeting progressed, the National Grid team highlighted the broader implications of the AMI rollout. With 75% of existing meters nearing the end of their useful life, the transition to smart meters is not only timely but necessary. The initiative aligns with evolving customer expectations and the growing emphasis on clean energy solutions.

The Select Board's engagement with National Grid marks a significant step in Nantucket's journey towards a more sustainable energy landscape. As the community prepares for the installation of these smart meters, residents can look forward to enhanced control over their energy usage and a more responsive utility service. The future of energy management on Nantucket is set to become smarter, cleaner, and more efficient, paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.