CFC Releases New AMI Best Practices Publication 

Electric cooperative leaders that want to unlock the full potential of their advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) systems are encouraged to download CFC’s new publication, “AMI Data for Load Research and Rate Design—Best Practices for Electric Cooperatives,” which is now available on the CFC Member Website. 

In today’s data-rich landscape, leveraging AMI is essential for optimizing infrastructure investments, enhancing rate design and supporting forward-thinking energy management. The publication provides actionable strategies and expert guidance on how to best optimize AMI data to benefit electric cooperatives and their members.

“Our new AMI best practices guide is designed to help cooperatives turn data into insights and actions,” said Jason Strong, vice president, Utility Pricing, Policy & Analytics (UPPA) team. “With the rapid adoption of AMI and the growing importance of data analytics for rate design and load research, this publication offers a timely roadmap for building strong, data-driven operational foundations.” 

The publication was developed by CFC’s UPPA team, which draws on extensive experience analyzing AMI data from hundreds of electric cooperatives nationwide to support the design and deployment of advanced AMI-driven rate programs, including residential demand charges, electric vehicle charging rates and time-of-use structures.

Some of the highlights of this publication include: 

• Comprehensive best practices for using AMI data in load research and rate design, enabling more precise cost allocation and smarter pricing strategies. 
• Detailed guidance on ensuring AMI data quality, accessibility, scalability and robust data governance—critical prerequisites for meaningful analytics and decision-making. 
• Practical advice for configuring AMI systems to capture the right data with the right detail, as well as recommendations for data storage, access and documentation. 
• Step-by-step approaches to auditing and verifying AMI data for accuracy and regulatory compliance. 
• Insight into the future of data analytics and machine learning applications for electric cooperatives, including customer segmentation, predictive forecasting and smart rate design. 

The publication also emphasizes the importance of strong data governance and provides a wealth of practical tools and case studies for leaders seeking to maximize the value of their AMI investments. 

CFC members can download a PDF copy of the publication from the CFC Member Website. Print copies can be ordered by using the publication order form on the Publications page of the Member Website.