FortisBC will launch an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project by replacing 130,000 electricity meters in B.C.’s Southern Interior.

The company has received approval for the project from the BC Utilities Commission (BCUC) on July 23 2013.

The installation of meters will begin in 2014 and is likely to be completed by the end of 2015.

Under the project, meters will be installed only for FortisBC’s electricity customers.

As part of the approval, the commission has asked the company to submit an application providing an option for customers to receive an advanced meter with the wireless radio transmissions turned off if they pay the incremental cost of opting-out.

FortisBC customer service vice-president Tom Loski said, "Advanced meters, also referred to as smart meters, will help FortisBC customers see how their electricity is being used, so they can better understand their bills and make more informed decisions on how to conserve energy."