Nicor Gas Meter Modernization reaches 1 million installation milestone

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – July 31, 2019

This month Nicor Gas celebrated the installation of the one millionth two-way communication device as part of the Meter Modernization program. Nicor Gas’ Meter Modernization program is one of several investments the company is making to improve customer communication and experience, and the reliability of meter reading and billing, ensuring every customer's energy needs are met safely and reliably now and well into the future. 

Meter Modernization involves installing small, two-way communication devices on existing natural gas meters throughout Nicor Gas’ service territory. These two-way communication devices feature state-of-the art technology that will automate the meter reading process and securely send it to Nicor Gas. 

This automation will enhance the customer experience by helping to eliminate estimated meter reads and providing more timely and accurate data about their energy usage, enabling energy- and cost-savings decisions. The ability to read meters without the need for a field visit will also simplify the process of moving properties and reduce the expense and environmental impact of service vehicles on the road. 

“We’re committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, affordable natural gas for our customers, our neighbors and our communities,” said Pat Whiteside, vice president of business support at Nicor Gas. “Continued deployment of the advanced metering infrastructure technologies across the Nicor Gas system is a key step toward building a state-of-the-art natural gas delivery system for northern Illinois.” 

The Meter Modernization program began in 2018 and installation of the two-way communication devices to all 2.2 million customers served by Nicor Gas is expected by 2020. For more information about Meter Modernization, visit nicorgas.com/metermodernization. 

About Nicor Gas 
Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Nicor Gas serves more than 2.2 million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit www.nicorgas.com. 

About Southern Company Gas 
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.2 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and 685,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines, asset management for natural gas wholesale customers and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.  

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Media Contact: 
Jennifer Golz 
o: 630.388.3737 | c: 331.222.8716 | jgolz@southernco.com[Press Release text goes here]