Power and Water have been rolling out smart meters across the Northern Territory for the past 10 years. Smart meters are replacing mechanical meters which are reaching the end of their operational life. Over half of all electricity meters are now smart meters. These advanced meters provide accurate readings and can be read remotely, reducing the need for technicians to access your property.
How accurate are smart meters?
Smart meters provide precise electricity usage readings. Older mechanical meters can slow down over time, leading to inaccurate consumption records. With a smart meter, your electricity usage is measured accurately and reported directly to Power and Water.
Why is there a change in my bill?
Because the old meters might not always provide an accurate read, you may notice a change in your recorded electricity use when your meter is upgraded.
We’re here to help if you’ve received a higher bill than usual and need extra time to pay. Click here to apply for a payment extension. Alternatively, Email customercare@jacanaenergy.com.au or speak to us directly by calling 1800 522 262.
Why is my current bill higher than my last bill?
Several factors can affect your electricity bill:
- Estimated reads: If you previously had estimated bills due to a basic meter, your billing may be adjusted after an actual read, which can result in a higher or lower bill than expected.
- Seasonal usage: Appliances like air conditioners and fridges consume more electricity during the summer/wet season as they work harder.
Visit our energy savings page for tips on how to reduce your electricity costs.
I’ve just paid my bill, why did I receive another one?
Smart meter upgrades may occur mid-billing cycle. When your old meter is removed, a final reading is taken, and a bill is issued. You will also receive another bill at the end of the billing cycle.
Once a smart meter is installed, you will receive monthly bills. If you prefer quarterly billing, you can request it by filling out this form.
Why was my last bill estimated?
Smart meters record electricity usage every 15 minutes. Occasionally, due to factors like internet issues, power outages, or meter damage, a reading may not be transmitted. In such cases, consumption is estimated only for the affected periods, while the rest of your bill is based on actual readings.
0.000 Reading
Smart meters record your usage in kilowatt hours (kWh) for every 15-minute period (interval). Each 15-minute interval is recorded and saved in the memory of the meter. Power and Water then connect to the meter, download the data and provide it to Jacana Energy to issue your bill.
Due to the meter type, the billing cycle starts at midnight on the first day of the cycle (reading as zero) and ends at midnight on the last day, reflecting your total consumption. Although your meter displays cumulative consumption, your bill always starts fresh from zero each month.
More information can be found at Smart meter upgrade | Power and Water Corporation