Advanced Metering Program

Advanced Metering Program

Communications planning for a major public utility

Communications planning for a major public utility

Location:

Seattle, WA

Client:

Seattle City Light

Services:

  • Strategic planning

  • Stakeholder interviews

  • Branding and messaging

  • RSJ planning

  • Materials development

  • Employee engagement

Project Description:

The Advanced Metering Program was the biggest outreach effort Seattle City Light had undertaken in a decade. It required clear and timely communications with every customer as the utility replaced nearly all 410,000 electric meters across its service area with advanced meters. Stepherson & Associates Communications (S&A) was hired to develop a communication plan to guide the outreach and communications to customers and employees.

Results:

The S&A Advanced Metering communications team worked with Seattle City Light project team members and management to create a comprehensive plan to guide outreach and communications to external, internal, and elected official audiences throughout the duration of the Advanced Metering program – from technology selection through meter installation. The plan identified program goals and benefits, key messages, outreach approach and methods, stakeholders, and program schedule and milestones. Materials developed were used throughout the three-year installation process to communicate with the public.