Abstract: In an example implementation of the disclosed technology, a system is provided by which a utility company customer can make a payment to the utility company via a point of sale (POS) system at a retailer such as a grocery store or clothing store. In some embodiments, the utility company provides to the user a barcode that includes information relating to the customer's account, and the customer can present the barcode to the POS system or a retail agent in the course of checking out at the retailer. Accordingly, the customer can pay a utility bill in the course of paying for, for example, groceries.

Abstract: Systems and methods for authorizing the connection of a utility service are disclosed. The system can comprise a utility meter, or other utility connection, a utility server, and a means of communication. The utility meter can comprise a disconnect switch capable of connecting and disconnecting a location from the utility. The disconnect switch can connect the utility to the location upon a command from the server and confirmation from a customer. The system can enable utilities to offer pay-as-you-go and pre-paid utility services, which can minimize the financial exposure of the utility. The system can also enable customers to connect utility services without having to be present and/or come into physical contact with utility equipment.

Abstract: In an example implementation of the disclosed technology, a system is provided by which a utility company customer can make a payment to the utility company via a point of sale (POS) system at a retailer such as a grocery store or clothing store. In some embodiments, the utility company provides to the user a barcode that includes information relating to the customer's account, and the customer can present the barcode to the POS system or a retail agent in the course of checking out at the retailer. Accordingly, the customer can pay a utility bill in the course of paying for, for example, groceries.

Abstract: Systems and methods for authorizing the connection of a utility service are disclosed. The system can comprise a utility meter, or other utility connection, a utility server, and a means of communication. The utility meter can comprise a disconnect switch capable of connecting and disconnecting a location from the utility. The disconnect switch can connect the utility to the location upon a command from the server and confirmation from a customer. The system can enable utilities to offer pay-as-you-go and pre-paid utility services, which can minimize the financial exposure of the utility. The system can also enable customers to connect utility services without having to be present and/or come into physical contact with utility equipment.

Abstract: Utility metering systems and methods are disclosed. An exemplary utility metering system can comprise a middleware system and a plurality of firmware systems. Each firmware system can be installed at a utility meter. A firmware system can maintain data related to an associated customer's utility services account. The firmware system can perform real time calculations to update the customer's account and balance as needed and can make decisions related to the customer's account, such as connection and disconnection of services, which can be implemented in real time. The middleware system can enable customers to interact with their respective utility meters, so that modifications made by the customers to their accounts can be transmitted to the applicable utility meters in real time.