The person who reads your meter does NOT set it back to zero. Therefore, the numbers keep turning until the next time the meter is read. By subtracting two consecutive readings, the amount of kilowatt-hours is determined for the month.

Hand-held computers are used to record the meter reading. The computer immediately checks to see if the reading is about the same as the one the month before. If it is substantially lower or higher, the computer asks the meter reader to re-read the meter to make sure the reading is correct. This helps insure your bill is accurate each and every month.