Columbia Gas of Ohio Wednesday announced the next phase of its Automated Meter Reading (AMR) system deployment, with monthly meter readings beginning this week across the company’s Three Rivers and Ironton operating areas.

This technology will eliminate the need to calculate customers’ gas consumption every other month and the need for customers with indoor meters to make access arrangements for Columbia’s meter readers.

Monthly meter readings started Wednesday in Athens, Coolville, Logan, Nelsonville, Middleport, Pomeroy, Gallipolis, Rio Grande, Circleville, Amanda, Chillicothe, Kingston, Jackson, Wellston, Waverly, Portsmouth, Wheelersburg, New Boston, Lucasville, Proctorville, Chesapeake, South Point, Ironton and surrounding areas.

Approximately 75,300 meters across the Three Rivers and Ironton operating areas have been upgraded with the new AMR devices. The installations started in late 2012 and represent a $4.2 million investment in these areas. With the addition of the Three Rivers and Ironton, nearly all 1.4 million Columbia Gas of Ohio customer meters will be read monthly.

The AMR system uses radio technology to automatically read the meter from a vehicle. As the specially equipped vehicle drives by, it receives a signal from the AMR, which in turn transmits the meter reading data to a computer in the vehicle. The AMR is powered by its own long-life battery and does not draw from a home’s electrical system.

The new AMR system installation is one of a series of programs comprising Columbia’s Doing More for You commitment. These programs are designed to enhance the company’s infrastructure and customer service, and include the Accelerated Mains Replacement Program (AMRP), replacing hazardous customer service lines and offering a portfolio of money-saving energy-efficiency programs.