New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric are continuing efforts to relocate natural gas meters from inside homes and businesses to outdoor locations as part of a broader initiative focused on safety, emergency preparedness, and service reliability.
Company officials say exterior gas meters allow utility crews and first responders to access equipment more quickly during emergencies and make it easier to complete inspections and maintenance work without requiring entry into homes or businesses.
“Relocating gas meters outdoors is one of the most effective ways we can improve safety for our customers and our communities,” said Tom Scappaticci. “Exterior meters provide immediate access in an emergency, eliminate delays caused by inaccessible locations, and allow our crews to complete critical inspections and maintenance without disruption to customers.”
NYSEG and RG&E said thousands of natural gas meters across New York remain indoors due to the way gas systems were historically designed. According to the companies, about 35 percent of RG&E gas meters and 18 percent of NYSEG gas meters are still located inside buildings.
Officials say moving meters outside improves access for routine maintenance and emergency response while reducing the need for in-home visits over time.
The utilities said most relocations can be completed with little or no disruption to customers. Property owners will receive advance notice before work begins, and crews will coordinate with customers to determine the timing and placement of the new meters.
Customers seeking additional information about meter relocation can visit the companies’ websites or contact RG&E at 800-743-2110 or NYSEG at 800-572-1111.
