Network installations
A crucial component of our Meter Upgrade project is installing network devices that can communicate usage from the new meters to PSE for billing purposes. These devices are either mounted on poles, or installed as pedestals, in areas prior to meter deployment. They must be located near a power source and within range of customers’ electric/gas meters, as well as other network devices.
Devices are typically installed in easements and rights of way. We choose our locations carefully and do our best to minimize the impact for our customers and their communities.
Device attached to utility pole
Pedestal device next to pad-mounted transformer
Pole device in area with overhead service
Pole device in area with underground service
Frequently asked questions
What will these pole and pedestal devices do?
They are needed to communicate usage from our customers’ gas/electric meters for PSE billing purposes. The devices we’re installing, and the new meters they support, are the current industry standard for metering technology.
How do easements work? Why can you install this on my property?
Network devices are typically installed in easements and rights of way. We choose our locations carefully and do our best to minimize the impact for our customers and communities.
An easement is a legal right to use another's land for a specific, limited purpose. For PSE, this means installing and accessing necessary infrastructure within the designated easement area(s). When an easement is granted by the property owner, it’s granting the legal right to use the property – but the legal title to the land, itself, remains with its owner. It is common for an easement to be granted in perpetuity.
Right of Way is the legal right, established by usage or grant, to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. They are often owned by a county, city, or municipality. Utilities are often placed within these rights of way under provisions known as franchise agreements. Franchises are similar to permits and are revocable. Easements are not.
How does PSE decide to install a pole top device or pedestal device?
The type network device installed depends on the area’s electric service. If an area has overhead power, the device is installed on an existing pole. If the power is underground, the device must be a pedestal-type or, occasionally, attached to a pole that’s connected to power from a pad-mounted transformer.
Why does the pedestal device have to be installed on my property or near my house?
Since they require an electric source to work properly, they must be installed near an existing pad-mounted transformer. We choose our locations carefully, based on a number of logistical requirements, and do our best to minimize customer impact.
Can PSE install these pole and pedestal devices somewhere else, or make them smaller?
The housing for these devices is as compact as possible without compromising functionality and safety. They must also be near a power source and within range of customers’ meters and other network devices.
Why is PSE installing this pedestal device if I don’t have gas (or electric) service at my house?
Chances are, it’s because your property has a pad-mounted transformer, which is necessary to power the device.
I already have something like this in my yard. Will it be removed?
Existing equipment is not removed. Depending on the device, it could be part of PSE’s utility infrastructure or equipment owned/operated by another utility or business entity – like a city or county PUD, or a cable or phone company.
Will I experience an outage while you’re installing a pole or pedestal device?
You should not experience any service interruption during installation.
Can I plant shrubs or trees to help conceal the pedestal device?
Accessing the device is crucial for routine maintenance, to ensure it’s working properly, and to avoid service interruptions. Please do not plant shrubs, trees, or other vegetation that could block access to the pedestal device. You can learn more about vegetation management and download our Energy Landscaping Brochure at pse.com/trees.
Are the devices 5G?
No. Our meters and network devices are not 5G or use 5G communication. Our system sends and receives information via a secure, third-party 4G network.