NEC has approximately 19,000 meters spread over an eight county area. Some are in more populated urban areas while the rest are in remote farming and ranching areas. 

As the electricity passes through the electric meter it measures the kilowatt-hours you use. The six numerical figures on the display of your meter enable the cooperative to determine the amount of electricity you consumed and then determine your bill. This display also shows the peak KW for the day (resetting at midnight), service voltage, internal relay status and a segment test.

All meters are read remotely on a monthly basis. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) are types of meters that are read via electronic means.  Readings are obtained electronically and posted to the members accounts monthly. Even though our meters are remotely read each month, we still require access to our meters and equipment. If you have a locked or electric gate, or dogs that will bite, please contact NEC in our Calallen office at (361) 387-2581 or 1-800-632-9288 so we can note how to gain access safely.

NEC manually reads each meter on its system on a periodic basis. The cooperative personnel record the reading and check for any signs of tampering, including broken meter seals, locking devices or any hazards. Hazards include (but are not limited to) T.V. antennas, satellite dishes or a member installed security light.  None of these items are allowed on NEC poles. The reason for this restriction is the possibility of electrical contact by a member or the hazard being an obstruction should an NEC employee need to climb the pole. Hazards may include any improper wiring that does not meet the requirements of the cooperative’s service standards, the National Electric Code, the National Electric Safety Code, and any other local, county and state codes that may apply, a meter that has been enclosed and is inaccessible to NEC employees, and right-of-way violations such as buildings or pools under an NEC line.

PLEASE REMEMBER: If it is necessary to remove your meter, please contact your local cooperative office and arrangements will be made to assist you. Unauthorized meter removal or meter tampering is unlawful and it is hazardous, possibly resulting in severe injury or death to anyone attempting to by-pass or alter the cooperative’s equipment.