Determine Service Requirements

Start by identifying whether you’ll need electric, gas, or both meters. Assess load requirements and gather information such as square footage and the types of appliances that will be in use. Determine whether this is a brand-new installation or a relocation of existing meters.

Gather Required Information

Before submitting your request, make sure you have the following details:

• Service address
• Assessor’s parcel number
• Building permit number
• Contact information
• Estimated service load ( for gas and electricity)
• Requested delivery pressure (for gas)
• Site readiness date or construction timeline
  
  

How to Submit a Request

Follow these steps to submit your request with your utility provider:

1. Visit your local utility provider’s website.
2. Navigate to the section for starting a new project or service request.
3. Create a new project account (separate from your billing/customer portal login).
4. Select the type of utility you need: electric, gas, or both.
5. Choose whether this is for an existing connection or a new service.
6. Fill out all required project details (address, permit info, square footage, etc.).
7. Submit the form and wait for the utility to assign a representative.
   
   

Tips to avoid delays:

Delays are common, so it’s important to stay ahead of the process. Here are some tips to help you do that.

• Confirm that your site has access to both electric and gas utilities before applying.
• Select only the utilities your equipment requires.
• Choose the correct service type:
  
  
  
  • New service = no existing meter or connection.
  • Existing service = meter is in place but needs activation or upgrade.

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• Include all anticipated future load requirements (e.g., HVAC, ovens) to avoid reapplying later.
• Involve your contractor or electrician to confirm utility load and avoid errors.
  
  

Once submitted, a project manager will be assigned. This person will be your primary contact for the duration of the project.

Timelines

Here’s a realistic timeline of what you can expect for the completion of this project.

• Electric Meter Installation: 2–4 months 
• Gas Meter Installation: 1.5–3 weeks 

Because these processes often run in parallel, the overall timeline typically matches the longer of the two, with coordination, inspections, and scheduling averaging around 3-4 months.

Estimated Costs

Payments are usually due at key milestones, such as when the utility approves your application or before construction begins. Utilities often provide an invoice or estimate, and payment is typically required in full before scheduling installation.

Installation Type

Estimated Cost

Commercial Electric Meter/Panel

$1,200 – $1,600

Electrical Work (per sq ft)

$11.50 – $20

Commercial Gas Meter

$200 – $500+ (can exceed $800)

Commercial Gas Line Installation

$1,500 – $4,000

Tips for Success

From our experience, anything can happen during this process—but those who navigate it most successfully tend to follow these key steps:

• Schedule utility inspections as early as possible.
• Ensure trenching and meter approvals are complete before house line installation.
• Maintain regular communication with your project manager and ask questions upfront.
  
  

FAQs

Can I expedite the process?

In some cases, you may be able to expedite setup by submitting a complete application, paying required fees promptly, and working closely with your utility representative. Some utilities offer informal expedited reviews for commercial projects, but timelines still depend on permitting and crew availability.

Can I reuse an existing meter?

If a meter is already installed and active, you may only need a service upgrade or activation. A new meter is only required if no connection exists, or if the load requirements exceed the current meter’s capacity.

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What causes delays?

Common issues include missing permits, incomplete applications, inaccessible sites, or underestimated load requirements. Involving your contractor early can help prevent these delays.

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Do I need an inspection?

Yes. Utility inspections (trenching, meter location, and connection readiness) are required before installation. Scheduling these early can help keep your project on track.

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TrueMeter’s AI Energy Manager automatically submits and tracks service requests including ordering new electric and gas meters. 

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