TID has started replacing existing retail electric meters with the new advanced “smart meters.” The new meters are designed to provide a wide range of benefits to customers while increasing operational efficiencies at TID. The meters will be installed over 4 years. This phased approach allows existing staff to change the meters as well as maintain better control of the critical meter reading and billing processes. The expected cost is $12.6 million, which is projected to be offset through operational savings— which will reduce waste, improve reliability and encourage energy efficiency and demand response.