Smart Meters Coming to Vernon

Don Quixote Update:
On Monday received  a letter dated Aug 11 from BC Hydro that they will be installing a new smart meter at my house within next few weeks. Apparently they will knock at my door before installation. It is my intention to inquire about cost of relocation option and to ensure that they check and certify that the base plate from existing meter is ok to hook up to. see http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2012/08/bc-hydro-offers-free-fix-if-meter.html
BC Hydro said the condition of the socket is the responsibility of the homeowner, but if installers find any problems with the equipment the utility will contact the homeowner and offer to bring in a qualified electrician to make the fix at Hydro's expense. The company said its smart meter crews have found about 1,000 sockets that were damaged by eroded wiring, improper socket installations and pre-existing electrical bypasses.

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Ad in Friday's Morning Star( May 26) indicates that Vernon will be getting a Smart meter installed at your residence and/or Place of Business.

There is no Opt Out Available but you can have Hydro install it at a place of your choice. (Outside building, Pole on your property at your expense.)  No idea of what this would cost as Hydro claims no-one has ever asked for this relocation option. (Be the first one to ask for the cost of this relocation !)

If you have your meter covered so installation is unable to be completed (Or you have  a sign saying NO SMART METER etc.) their protocol is to leave information so you can talk with a hydro smart meter facilitator who will try to persuade you of the merits of the Smart Meter Program.

Personally, I have no concerns and will allow a smart meter installation on my property. BUT like negative billing etc. I do believe that Hydro should allow an opt out opportunity for those who have concerns about the program. (Naturally extra costs for meter reading etc. will have to be borne by the opt out property owner.)