Edge Computing on Meters (ECOM)

Distributed Intelligence (DI) applications at existing PG&E customer premises throughout the service territory. These DI enabled meters provide real time monitoring of grid conditions, including fault detection, transformer and service level loading, and behind the meter load characteristics. The project will involve configuring DI applications, integrating required data systems, replacing existing meters with upgraded units, and monitoring performance for at least one year. The goal is to understand whether DI enabled smart meters can improve grid reliability and public safety by detecting ignition causing faults earlier, supporting customer electrification; such as electric vehicle charging, without requiring costly electrical service upgrades, and helping defer distribution and transformer replacements. The results will help support evaluation of the feasibility, operational benefits, and cost effectiveness of a potential larger scale deployment of AMI 2.0 meters and DI applications in future rate case proceedings. This project will provide benefits for disadvantaged and low-income communities, the utility grid, and California ratepayers by reducing wildfire ignition risks, improving situational awareness, and enabling more efficient use of existing infrastructure.