Benefits and technology

We’re upgrading gas meters for more than one million customers in our service area across B.C. This interactive illustration of an advanced gas meter shows you what the meters look like, what benefits they’ll offer customers and how they work in homes and businesses. Take a look.

How to interact with the illustration

Click through the numbered circles to learn about each part of the meter or scroll down for details.

What are the benefits of advanced gas meters?

  • Added customer safety: The meter can respond automatically or be engaged remotely to support a response if we’re made aware of an emergency.
  • Better insight into customer energy use: Future capabilities will include more detailed gas usage information to help customers understand their gas use and inform their decisions.
  • Fewer in-person visits: the meters send gas usage data automatically. That means customers don’t need to schedule visits or be home for a meter reading, in most cases.

Please note: Some advanced gas meter benefits aren’t available yet, but they will be later as the AMI Project continues. We’ll notify customers when benefits become available in their area.

How do gas meters work?

Gas flows from the distribution system through the meter that measures gas use by volume to determine meter readings and billing. Here’s what each meter component does to help do that.

1. Pressure regulator

Home heating and appliances need the flow of gas to be at a lower pressure than the pressure coming from the external gas line from the gas distribution system. The pressure regulator lowers it to make it safe for use in homes and businesses.

2. Built-in shut-off valve

When it’s in the open position, the valve allows the gas to enter the meter. The shut-off function closes it automatically when temperatures go past a certain point. The valve can close automatically or we can engage it remotely if we’re made aware of an emergency.

3. Internal battery

This is the meter’s power source for the display and other functions. The battery offers self-contained reliability without external wiring. The battery has self-monitoring capabilities and service alarms that we’ll respond to appropriately.

4. Wireless communications

Advanced gas meters collect and send gas usage data through a secure network. The meter can also receive communications and updates. It never collects or transmits information like names or addresses. Advanced meters serve the same role as the old meters, which is to measure gas use to determine billing. For more information, visit our safety, security and privacy page.

5. LCD display

LCD display

A. Index and volume digits—the reading represents measured gas consumption to determine your gas bill.

B. Temperature correction—this indicates that the meter automatically adjusts for temperature changes.

C. Valve status—the icon appears when the valve has closed, shutting off the flow of gas.

D. Radio indicator—the icon appears when radio status is active.

E. Battery indicator—this icon only appears when battery life is low. We’ll be notified and act accordingly.

F. Alarm indicator—this icon only appears when the meter requires us to take appropriate action.

6. Compact casing

The advanced gas meter casing is streamlined and lightweight, resistant to all weather conditions in B.C. The meter design allows for a more practical fit for homes and businesses.

We’re here to help

Want to know more about the Gas AMI Project? Call 1-888-224-2710 or email [email protected].