The City of Mustang, Oklahoma, has completed a $5.9 million advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) project, replacing more than 8,000 water meters to improve utility operations and support future growth.

Ameresco, an energy infrastructure company, completed the installation in five months, half the original 10-month schedule, according to an Oct. 26 announcement. The project began with an investment-grade audit to evaluate the city’s existing metering system, assess technology options and determine project costs and long-term considerations.

The upgraded system enables automated remote meter reading and provides water utility staff with more timely consumption data to identify unusual usage and investigate potential leaks. It also streamlines billing, account research and customer service processes.

The project includes a customer portal that allows residents to access information about their water consumption. Ameresco coordinated the installation and transition with city staff to minimize disruptions to residents and utility operations.

The modernization is intended to strengthen Mustang’s water utility operations while providing the data and operational insight needed to accommodate community growth, the company said.