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Commission hears that Eversource policy now requires many meters to move outside; staff to coordinate with building department
Summary
Staff told commissioners that Eversource’s updated procedures — previously applied to gas meters and now applying to electric meters — have led to some meters being relocated to building fronts; the building department has agreed to route meter relocations through historic‑district staff for review going forward.
Staff alerted the commission that utility meter practices have changed: meter relocations and replacements that once resulted in interior meters are increasingly being moved to exterior locations by the utility or at the request of contractors. Staff said the building department will now forward any electrical‑meter relocation applications to historic‑district staff for review so the commission can advise on placement and concealment to minimize streetscape impact.
The discussion arose after commission members identified recent installations in the public right‑of‑way and front facades. Staff said earlier instances had already received electrical permits before historic review, but moving forward the building department will route exterior‑meter relocation requests to the commission’s staff contact to determine whether a non‑applicability determination or a full commission review is required.
Commissioners and staff discussed options to reduce the visual impact of meter placements: siting meters farther back when feasible; placing them behind planting strips; using small bump‑outs or recessed locations; and painting or screening equipment. Staff said Eversource and contractor representatives had been receptive to minimizing visibility when alternatives exist.
Why it matters: Utility meter relocations can affect the visual integrity of historic streetscapes. The commission emphasized early coordination with the building department and utilities to reduce the number of front‑facing meters in the historic district.
Next steps: Staff to coordinate with building‑department permitting staff and utility contacts to streamline referrals for meter relocations and to encourage minimal‑visibility placements when possible.
