Print, Photographic

Photograph. Black and white photo showing a meter reader who is standing next to an electric meter box, radio-controlled meter box, junction box, and air conditioner on the side of a typical suburban house. The meter reader is a female employee of Detroit Edison and is wearing a company uniform. She is noting the meter reading on a paper card. A typewritten note attached to the verso shows "Radio Controlled Air Conditioning Study - Data from Detroit Edison's pilot study this past summer of radio control for central air conditioners was collected by many Edison meter readers like Ruth Mills. The test meter, the radio control receiver, and other equipment are mounted on the board behind the outdoor compressor unit. The regular electric service meter, upper left of picture, is in the box attached to the brick wall. Preliminary conclusions of the study indicate that periodic interruptions of electrical service to air conditioners by radio signals may enable Edison to cut peak summer electrical usage by its customers without causing them any discomfort and could provide more economical electrical energy. The study will be conducted again during the summer of 1976. This pilot program is only one of the many tests and projects the company is investigating to help control the need for new power plants. Detroit Edison, Public Affairs Department, 2000 Second Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226 (313) 237-8850."