The City of Lumberton has announced a significant upgrade to its water and electric metering systems through the adoption of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). This initiative aims to modernize meter reading processes, enhance service reliability, and provide residents with greater insight into their utility consumption.
According to city officials, AMI uses smart meters equipped with secure radio-frequency technology that automatically transmits usage data to the city. This approach eliminates manual meter readings and offers near real-time information, which helps detect and resolve issues more quickly.
City representatives stated that the new system will bring several improvements. “Smart meters provide more accurate readings by reducing estimates and human error. They help identify leaks, outages, and unusual usage patterns sooner, enabling faster response from utility crews. Because readings are transmitted remotely, AMI reduces the need for staff to access meters in the field and improves operational efficiency. As additional customer tools are introduced, residents will also gain access to detailed usage information to help them monitor consumption.”
The rollout involves replacing over 20,000 devices across Lumberton: 10,381 electric meters, 12,456 water meter transmitting units (MTUs), as well as thousands of upgraded water meters in various sizes. The system will operate through seven Data Collection Units installed throughout the city that securely transmit meter signals to Lumberton’s AclaraONE management platform.
Installation is set to begin in late 2025 and continue into 2026. The process will occur in phases so all components can be tested before full implementation. Residents may notice utility crews working in their neighborhoods during this period.
To keep residents informed during installation, crews will leave door hangers at each property indicating whether the upgrade was completed or if further action is needed due to access or safety concerns.
No action is required from residents for most installations since most meters are outdoors; however, if a brief service interruption is necessary during installation, crews will notify those affected on-site.
A customer portal provided through VertexOne will be launched as part of this project. The portal will allow users to view daily water and electricity usage data, monitor trends for unusual spikes in consumption, and review billing details once it becomes available.
Regarding privacy concerns associated with smart technology deployment, city officials emphasized: “AMI systems measure usage—not personal information. All communication between meters and the City’s network is encrypted and secured using industry-standard technologies. The system does not track customer behavior, personal data, internet activity, or any devices inside the home. It simply records water and electricity consumption.”
Key benefits highlighted by city officials include improved billing transparency; quicker detection of leaks or service issues; enhanced reliability; reduced need for manual meter reads—thereby lowering fuel use—and expanded tools for customers wishing to monitor their own usage patterns.
Residents seeking more information about the AMI upgrade can contact the City of Lumberton Public Works Department at 910-671-9851.
