PIE&G continues to implement technology improvements with its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project. Employees and contractors have been working since April. PIE&G has installed approximately eleven 100-foot towers (manufactured for PIE&G by Moran Iron Works of Onaway) in strategic areas. Equipment mounted high on the towers will help PIE&G collect meter readings, detect outages for faster restorations, and identify potential power quality issues for maintenance. So far, PIE&G has installed approximately 20,000 advanced meters (almost two-thirds of its electric system), PIE&G’s AMI system will provide members with the most advanced, secure, and reliable technology available.

On the fiber front, PIE&G has connected 20 services in its pilot program to test the network and related systems. Construction of the network began in the Onaway area last fall. Members are encouraged to submit their interest in receiving fiber service at www.piegconnect.com. As soon as the business and support processes have been thoroughly tested, the PIE&G Member Services Team will contact members who have submitted interest to arrange for installation of internet service.

Together these projects will allow PIE&G to provide members with modern, enhanced services. The new building headquarters and AMI projects are expected to add efficiencies to daily operations, and AMI will improve reliability. Access to high-speed internet has become a staple in everyday life and we view it to be as essential as our electricity and natural gas service.