CMP's smart meters probed
State utilities regulators yesterday voted to open an investigation into complaints over Central Maine Power Co.'s installation of "smart meters" currently under way.
The vote by the Maine Public Utilities Commission is in response to two 10-person complaints the commission received, according to a press release. The investigation will examine whether CMP's smart-meter program, which does not permit residents to opt-out of the new meters, is "unreasonable, insufficient or unjustly discriminatory," and will study alternatives to the smart meters that will not negatively impact smart grid goals. The PUC in February approved CMP's automated metering infrastructure program, intended to save money for both ratepayers and the company, as well as allow customers to more efficiently use electricity.
Opposition to the smart meters has surfaced since CMP began installation, and some communities have questioned their safety. The PUC's investigation will not address health concerns raised by the two petitions, according to Capitol News Service. CMP has installed about 90,000 of the 600,000 meters in its service area, and the project is partially funded by a $96 million federal stimulus grant.
Go to the article from Capitol News Service >>
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