“Smart” transmitting utility meters are being installed internationally for electric, gas and water. Meters may transmit data by technology similar to a cell phone call, a text message, or via fiber optics. Depending on how they’re programmed, meters can collect and transmit data about a customer’s utility usage moment-by-moment, hourly, daily or monthly.

These FCC regulations outline that transmitting utility meters–such as Badger transmitting water meters–must be at least 20 centimeters from all persons at all times. Also, these meters may not be co-located. That means that only one meter can be installed in one location.

The photos show co-location of Badger water meters in Santa Fe, NM: more than one meter installed at one location.