Will my service be disconnected if I opt out?
No. Your electric service will continue as usual if you choose to opt out of a SmartMeter.
PNM is committed to providing safe, reliable electricity to all customers. Choosing not to have a SmartMeter installed will not affect your access to electric service.
What does opting out mean?
If you choose to opt out of a SmartMeter:
- Your meter will be read manually instead of remotely
- You may not have access to certain SmartMeter features, such as detailed energy usage insights or faster service capabilities
- You may not be eligible for some programs or rate options that require SmartMeter technology
This option is available for customers who prefer not to participate in SmartMeter installation.
Are there fees to opt out?
Yes. Because opting out requires manual meter reading and additional operational support, fees apply.
One-time opt-out fee:
- $18.60 if you opt out before SmartMeter installation is completed in your area
- $49.17 if a SmartMeter has already been installed
Ongoing monthly fee:
- $9.95 per month, beginning once SmartMeter installation is completed statewide in New Mexico, estimated for end of 2028
Fees are subject to change depending on the number of customers that choose to opt-out and New Mexico Public Regulation Commission filings.
Why is PNM installing SmartMeters?
SmartMeters support PNM's efforts to modernize the electric grid and provide customers with:
- More detailed energy usage information
- Faster outage detection and restoration
- Improved service capabilities
- Tools that help customers better manage energy use
While most customers choose to participate, opting out remains available.
| SmartMeter | Traditional Meter | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Alerts | Yes | No |
| View Near-Real Time Energy | Yes | No |
| Outage Detection | Yes | No |
| Manual Meter Reading by Technician | No | Yes |
| Setup Charge | Free | $18.60 / $49.17 |
| Monthly Charge | Free | $9.95 |
How do I opt out?
If you would like to opt out of a SmartMeter installation, or if you have questions about your options, we're here to help.
Options to get started:
- Call PNM Contact Center at 888-DIAL-PNM (888-342-5766)
- Login to your PNM.com account and then click on the link for the Opt-out form.
Our team can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Got questions? We've got straight answers.
SmartMeters make bills more accurate by recording actual energy use, elimintating the need to sometimes estimate use. Your billing process stays the same.
Yes. If you opt-out now, you can change your mind and call the contact center to request a SmartMeter to be installed. However, the opt-out fees already applied are non-refundable.
Unlike SmartMeters, which automatically transmit usage data, traditional meters require trained personnel to physically visit your location each month to read the legacy meter. This process involves additional staffing, specialized equipment, vehicle usage, and ongoing software maintenance to ensure accurate billing.
Yes. A key benefit of SmartMeters is that they help speed up the restoration time for outages, by identifying when power is lost faster. If you opt-out, outage detection may rely more heavily on customers reporting rather than our SmartMeters sending alerts to PNM.
Have more questions?
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