ECUA outlines $25 million roadmap for system-wide AMI deployment

ECUA outlines $25 million roadmap for system-wide AMI deploymentThe Florida utility plans to present a proposal for a five-year rollout of fixed-network metering to replace its current drive-by system, targeting improved operational efficiency and faster customer notifications.

ECUA has completed a business case for a transition to AMI, with a projected total cost of $25 million.

The deployment is expected to span three to five years, requiring an annual investment of approximately $5 million.

The new system will replace drive-by AMR collection with a fixed network allowing for daily or instantaneous data readings.

Management confirmed that the technology shift is not expected to result in significant staff reductions, with employees likely shifting to maintenance roles.

The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority (ECUA) is preparing to move forward with a major capital investment in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), following the completion of a business case reviewing the return on investment. Speaking at a Citizens' Advisory Committee meeting on January 20, 2026, Mr. Woody, a senior official at the utility, outlined the scope of the proposed $25 million project. The initiative aims to replace the utility's current automated meter reading (AMR) system, which relies on staff driving through neighborhoods to collect monthly data. Under the current system, leaks are often only detected after a 30-day billing cycle, leading to high bills and customer disputes. Mr. Woody noted that the new AMI system would utilize strategic receivers throughout the service area to provide "daily or instantaneous information." "We know right away if there is a problem and then can contact a property owner to let them know that we've seen a surge in their consumption," Mr. Woody told the committee. The system would also enable a customer portal where ratepayers can view their own consumption data. The rollout is projected to take between three and five years to fully deploy, with a capital outlay of approximately $5 million per year. When questioned by committee member Mr. Perkins regarding potential cost savings similar to the previous shift from manual to AMR reading, Mr. Woody clarified that he does not anticipate a reduction in full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. Instead, staff would be retained for meter repair, testing, and other maintenance functions. The discussion arose in response to committee member Mr. Williams' inquiries regarding mechanisms to notify customers of excessive water usage before bills reach the thousands of dollars. Staff indicated that a formal presentation regarding the move to AMI will be brought to the board in the near future.