California utility Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced Tuesday that it has installed 2.3 million smart gas and electric meters, putting it on track to deploy nearly 10 million by the end of 2011.

The automated meters send usage data to the utility over the Internet, allowing customers to view their consumption online and not have to wait for their monthly bills. The meters also allow customers to take advantage of a summer program that can save them money if they reduce energy use during peak demand.

The meters save the utility money by not having to send employees out for monthly meter reader visits. The devices also give the utility a more accurate picture of the health of the grid.

San Francisco-based PG&E began installing smart meters in 2006. By the end of 2011, it plans to have installed new meters for all of its gas and electric customers in northern California.