Maryland PSC Considers Smart Meter Opt-Out
It may not be an epidemic but the number of states to consider smart meter opt-outs is spreading. No one doubts the importance of reliability and the need to update the electric grid. However, it is a surprise to the industry that due to a vocal minority, many utilities face having to upgrade while retaining the capability to service analog meters. Smart Grid Legal News has reported on the several states to consider or implement some form of smart meter opt-out. On May 22, 2012, the Maryland Public Service Commission will hold legislative-style hearings on whether to require utilities to offer customers an opportunity to opt out of receiving a smart meter. The Notice states the Commission has received correspondence from ratepayers expressing concern about health and privacy issues associated with smart meters.
In its comments, Commission Staff provides a nice overview and analysis of the concerns. At the end of the day, Staff empathizes with the concerns of citizens but for good factual reasons does not support an opt-out. One reason being:
An Opt-out provision makes it impossible for utilities to achieve such benefits as theft of service detection and a full understanding of grid usage (for example, voltage levels at the premises and distribution transformer loading) for those customers who opt out.
- Staff comments, page 12
I think Commissions should address concerns of citizens in their states, and hearings like this are positive. More open forums to discuss the issues related to smart meters with those outside of the industry (customers) are necessary. Utilities who have not yet deployed smart meters take heed: Communicate early and often with your customers. A bill insert after your regulatory approval is not enough. This area is crying out for more communication. Fears should be addressed with factual information. Hopefully after hearing the concerns, there will be a new wave of Commission decisions based on facts instead of the fears of a few. While I generally don’t like to hear it, it will be refreshing to hear “NO” for a change.
