[1minusp]

I work in a closely related space: parent's comments are accurate. Some of these items can be solved with better forecasting models, but the issue is that almost no-one actually cares about 'better' forecasting at inidividual meter levels. Sysytem-wide (or at least substation level) forecasts are well studied for supply/demand considerations (at a minimum). Also, the variability in consumption patterns at an individual level are large. IOW, one might be able to generate forecasts accurately for 'typical' residential consumption (at a per-household level), but commercials can be very different. Ideally, IF (and this is a BIG if), forecasts for "most" premises was accurate enough, then one could make the claim that the missing data shouldnt really cause a recalculation of bill once the actual consumption data comes thru, except in cases where the error is large. Guess that means that the error check/correct process needs to continue to exist.

The meter being replaced shouldnt be a major issue, this is relational (at least we treat this all as relational) data that should be captured (by the customer information 'CIS' system), and should be available with a 1-2 day delay. Similar argument applies to other relational aspects of the premise under consideration. Not saying that those are easy (more ways for this process to have gaps).