I read mine monthly after Pacific Gas & Electric ripped me off for over $300 eight years ago by manipulating the readings. Had to go to the California Public Utilities Commission to get the money back.
PG&E has probably spent 200 man hours since then to try to get that money back. Have a two year old complaint working now from when they flat out refused my reading and made up their own that is not supported by anything.
This months bill they're trying the same tactic of readiing one month low and the next high to charge a higher per therm rate! Where's Julia Roberts when you need her? They must be making a fortune on this scam.