A method and system for monitoring usage of a utility at a remote location by
a
central station and incorporates a real time method for optimizing energy costs
operationally by combining optimization algorithms and real time pricing data to
lower costs to the energy user. The system includes a meter reading module for
determining an amount of usage at the remote location and generating a data signal
indicative of the determined amount of usage and a personal computer (PC) located
at the remote location and connected to the meter reading module. The PC is connectable
to the internet for receiving and storing the data signal from the meter reading
module for transmission to a processor located at the central location via the
internet. The meter reading module is connected to one of an electrical, gas or
water meter. The processor determines an amount of usage of the utility based upon
the data signal. The meter reading module is connected to the PC via one of a hardwired
connection, X-10 technology or sent over existing telephone lines. The processor
is able to generate a bill based upon a determined amount of usage and transmit
the bill to the PC in the form of one of an e-mail message, Internet browser or
other Internet related technologies. Payment of the bill by the PC at the remote
location is performed automatically over the Internet via online banking protocols
or other internet related payment technologies.
