Smart Meter Opt-Out

Option Available for Residential Customers

We support individual choice for residential customers when it comes to their home electricity meter. You may choose between a smart meter and an analog meter.

Smart Meter vs. Analog Meter
Smart Meter Benefits Smart Meter Analog Meter
  smart meter image Analog meter image
No meter readers on property ✓  
Outage detection ✓  
Smart device & smart home capability ✓  
More reliable service ✓  
Set up charge Free $75.00*
Monthly charge Free $10.00*
*per 2022 – 2023 Austin Energy Fee Schedule

 

Please note that smart meter-enabled benefits will be discontinued when you switch to an analog meter. Special conditions apply. Call Customer Care for more information.

How to Opt-Out

There are two ways to opt-out of a smart meter:

Opt-Out Charges

If you switch to an analog meter, charges will be added to your bill. These charges are set by City Council. They include an initial $75 Smart Meter Opt Out Exchange Fee plus tax and a $10 Smart Meter Opt Out Monthly Manual Read Fee.

If You Decide to Go Back to a Smart Meter

You can switch from analog back to a smart meter by calling Customer Care at 512-494-9400. There is no charge to switch back.

Learn more about smart meter benefits

Date last reviewed or modified: 11/19/2025